Qatar warns Gulf conflict could disrupt global energy supplies

Qatar has issued a stark warning that ongoing conflict in the Middle East could force Gulf countries to halt energy exports within weeks, potentially sending global oil prices sharply higher, Financial Times reports.

“This will undermine the global economy,” said Saad bin Sherida Al Kaabi, Qatar’s Minister of Energy, cautioning that continued hostilities could damage world economic growth and drive energy prices upward.

Kaabi highlighted the vulnerability of Qatar’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) infrastructure, noting that it could take the country several weeks to several months to return to normal supply levels after an Iranian drone struck the LNG facility in Ras Laffan.

He added that “all exporters in the Gulf region would have to declare force majeure” if the conflict continues.

By Vafa Guliyeva