Diplomacy – Jaishankar Expresses Grief After Deadly Qatar Industrial Blast
Diplomacy – External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Tuesday conveyed his condolences following the deadly explosion and fire at Ras Laffan Industrial City in Qatar, an incident that claimed multiple lives, including Indian nationals, and left several others injured.
In a message shared on social media, Jaishankar said he was deeply saddened by the loss of life and injuries caused by the accident. He noted that Indian diplomatic officials in Qatar are maintaining close contact with local authorities and are providing assistance to families impacted by the tragedy. The minister also extended his prayers and sympathies to the victims and their relatives during this difficult time.
Embassy Confirms Death of Indian Nationals
The Indian Embassy in Doha earlier confirmed that 12 Indian citizens lost their lives in the incident that occurred on Sunday night. According to information provided by Qatari authorities, all injured individuals are currently in stable condition and are receiving necessary medical care.
The embassy expressed condolences to the families of those who died and stated that efforts are underway to support affected families. Officials are also coordinating with local authorities to ensure the timely repatriation of the mortal remains of the deceased to India.
QatarEnergy Releases Updated Casualty Figures
In an updated statement, QatarEnergy reported that the explosion and the subsequent fire resulted in 13 fatalities, while 66 people are undergoing treatment at medical facilities. The company added that none of the injured individuals is facing life-threatening conditions.
The energy company said the victims included workers from India and Pakistan, while those injured represented several nationalities, including citizens of Qatar, Bangladesh, Nepal, Kenya, Ghana, Tanzania and Nigeria. QatarEnergy offered condolences to families, friends and colleagues of those who lost their lives and pledged continued support to those affected.
Authorities Rule Out Sabotage
QatarEnergy stressed that preliminary assessments indicate the incident was an operational accident and not linked to sabotage, criminal activity or any hostile action. The company stated that the Barzan gas facility, where the incident occurred, had remained shut since December 2025 due to urgent maintenance work and resumed operations only two days before the accident.
Emergency response teams from QatarEnergy, working alongside Civil Defence personnel, were able to bring the fire under control and extinguish it. Technical teams are now evaluating damage to the facility and nearby infrastructure.
Energy Exports Continue Without Disruption
Despite the severity of the incident, QatarEnergy confirmed that the country’s liquefied natural gas facilities, Ras Laffan Port, logistics systems and export operations have not been affected. The company emphasized that normal export activities continue without interruption.
Officials said ongoing assessments are focused on determining the full extent of damage within the affected operational area while ensuring safety standards are maintained.
Preliminary Investigation Points to Technical Fault
Qatar’s Ministry of Interior said initial findings suggest that a technical malfunction during operations may have triggered the explosion. Authorities immediately launched emergency rescue procedures under established response plans, and all injured individuals were transported for treatment.
The ministry confirmed that search and rescue operations at the site have been completed. Investigators are continuing to examine the technical circumstances surrounding the accident and will take action under relevant legal and regulatory frameworks once the inquiry is completed.
Authorities also reassured residents that no hazardous leak has been detected following the incident and that there is currently no threat to public safety or the surrounding environment. A comprehensive investigation into the exact cause of the explosion remains ongoing.