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According to the agency, a Qatari search and rescue team—part of the Lekhwiya Internal Security Force (Qatar Internal Security Force)—is continuing search and rescue operations at the scene in coordination with civil defense units.
The explosion occurred on the evening of June 21 at one of QatarEnergy’s facilities, the Barzan gas distribution station in an industrial zone near Doha. According to the authorities’ preliminary assessment, the incident was caused by a technical malfunction. The statement emphasizes that no signs of a leak were detected.
QatarEnergy confirmed the incident, specifying that it occurred during a production startup and led to an explosion and subsequent fire. According to the company, the fire was contained, and emergency response teams arrived at the scene promptly.
Initial reports indicated a smaller number of casualties, but as search and rescue operations continued, the figures were revised.
It should be noted that Ras Laffan is a key industrial center in Qatar and one of the world’s largest hubs for the production and export of liquefied natural gas (LNG). A significant portion of global LNG supplies passes through its facilities.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances of the incident and are verifying the details regarding the injured and those missing.
