A powerful explosion ripped through Qatar’s main natural gas export hub late on Sunday, injuring at least 54 people and leaving 18 others missing, hours after workers resumed operations at the facility following an Iranian strike during the recent conflict.

The blast occurred at the Barzan gas supply facility in the Ras Laffan industrial area while efforts were underway to restart exports, according to state-owned QatarEnergy. A fire broke out following the explosion, though the extent of the damage remains unclear.

Videos going viral online show bright flames rising in the distance against a dark skyline. Smoke appears to be spreading across the sky, and a small bright object is visible overhead.

Qatar had halted gas production after Iran tightened its control over the Strait of Hormuz during the war, disrupting shipments to international customers. As negotiations over a lasting end to the conflict continued and restrictions in the strategic waterway eased, authorities moved to restart activities at the export terminal.

However, work to resume operations ended in disaster on Sunday night when an explosion and fire struck the facility.

Officials initially reported that only a small number of people had been injured. But several hours later, Qatar’s Interior Ministry revised the figures, saying at least 54 people had been hurt and 18 others were still unaccounted for.

The incident could add to uncertainty in global energy markets, as Qatar is among the world’s leading exporters of natural gas.

Source: News18