Israel Strikes Iran’s South Pars Gas Field, Raising Gulf Tensions

Recent strikes by Israel on Iran’s South Pars gas field, the world’s largest, have escalated tensions in the region and prompted threats of retaliation from Tehran. The attack, which targeted facilities near Asaluyeh on Iran’s Gulf coastline, has raised concerns about potential disruptions to global energy supplies and a wider conflict in the Gulf.

What is the South Pars Gas Field?

The South Pars gas field is a massive natural gas reservoir shared by Iran, and Qatar. On the Iranian side, it is known as South Pars, while on the Qatari side, it is called the North Field [1]. It is the world’s largest natural gas field, holding an estimated 50.8 trillion cubic meters of natural gas [4]. The field is critical to both Iran and Qatar’s energy production and economies.

Details of the Attack

Iranian state media reported that facilities associated with the South Pars gas field were on fire on Wednesday, March 18, 2026 [1]. The strikes were reportedly carried out by Israel with the consent of the United States [3]. This marks the first targeted attacks on Iran’s fossil fuel production since the start of the conflict [3]. Israel previously attacked parts of the Iranian section of South Pars during a 12-day war with Iran last year [2].

Iran’s Response and Threats

In response to the attack, Iran has threatened to strike energy infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar [1]. The Islamic Revolutionary Guards have warned of counterstrikes “in the coming hours” [3]. Iran has also issued evacuation orders for five energy facilities in the Gulf [4].

Impact on Global Energy Markets

The attack on South Pars has already begun to impact global energy markets. The oil price climbed towards $110 a barrel on Wednesday as concerns about disruption to Gulf oil and gas supplies increased [3]. The strikes target not Iran’s exports, but its biggest source of domestic energy supplies [1].

Qatar’s Reaction

Qatar has reacted strongly to the attack, blaming Israel for bombing South Pars and calling it “dangerous and irresponsible” [4].

The situation remains highly volatile, with the potential for further escalation in the coming days and weeks.