Iran has warned Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates to evacuate key energy facilities, escalating tensions across the Gulf after a strike on its largest gas field triggered fears of wider regional confrontation.

The warning follows a major attack on Iran’s South Pars gas field, a critical energy asset that supplies the majority of the country’s domestic gas and forms part of the world’s largest natural gas reserve shared with Qatar.

The strike caused fires and operational disruption, prompting Iranian authorities to signal a swift and forceful response.

In response, Iranian military officials declared that energy infrastructure across neighbouring Gulf states could be considered legitimate targets.

The warning was accompanied by calls for civilians and workers to leave oil, gas and petrochemical facilities in vulnerable areas, underscoring the seriousness of the threat.

The situation rapidly intensified as Gulf countries began taking precautionary measures.

Reports indicate that refineries, gas plants and industrial hubs in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates were partially evacuated, reflecting heightened concern over potential strikes.

The escalation has already begun to affect regional stability and global energy markets.

A missile attack targeting a major liquefied natural gas hub in Qatar caused damage and reinforced concerns about the vulnerability of critical infrastructure.

Air defence systems intercepted several incoming projectiles, though at least one strike reached its target.

The broader conflict has drawn energy facilities into direct risk, marking a significant shift in the nature of hostilities.

Previous incidents had already seen attacks on oil refineries and gas installations across the Gulf, but the latest developments point to a more coordinated and expansive threat environment.

Saudi Arabia and its regional partners have demonstrated readiness to respond, activating defence systems and reinforcing security around strategic assets.

The kingdom’s swift measures highlight its commitment to safeguarding vital infrastructure and maintaining stability in global energy supply chains.

The developments have also had immediate economic consequences, with oil and gas prices rising sharply amid fears of supply disruption, particularly as shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remains constrained.

As tensions continue to mount, the warning issued by Iran represents a critical moment in the conflict, raising the prospect of further escalation involving key energy producers and increasing the risk of prolonged instability across the region.