Tweleve Indians were among the 13 people killed in an explosion at Ras Laffan LNG export terminal in Qatar on Sunday evening. At least 66 people have been injured in the incident.
"Qatari authorities have confirmed that 12 Indian nationals have unfortunately passed away in the Ras Laffan incident yesterday night," the Indian Embassy in Doha said in a post on X.
The Embassy said it's working in close contact with the Qatari authorities to extend all possible help to the Indian nationals and their families affected by this incident, including ensuring that mortal remains of the deceased are sent to India at the earliest.
According to Reuters, the explosion shook windows and was felt across central Doha, panicking residents more than 70 kilometres from Ras Laffan.
Confirming the incident, Qatar's energy minister Saad Sherida al-Kaabi gave the toll during a news conference in Doha on Monday, adding that the explosion was related to an industrial accident.
Qatar, which is one of the top natural gas exporters, had earlier shut down its production after Iranian blockade on the Strait of Hormuz prevented it from sending shipments to clients.
In March, Qatar had announced that the Ras Laffan hub was "significantly damaged" after behing struck by Iranian missile and drone attacks. Following this, Qatar had ordered Iran's military and security attaches, along with their staff, to leave the country within 24 hours.
However, after Iran reopened the strait, Qatar decided to restart its export terminal in Ras Laffan Industrial City. The latest explosion at Barzan local gas supply facility occurred during this restarting process.
The ministry clarified that the explosion would not have an impact on the plant's export capabilities and dismissed any risk to the environment.
Qatar, along with Pakistan, is mediating the negotiations between Iran and the US to reach a final peace deal over the next 60 days. On Monday, the US Treasury Department issued a 60-day general licence, lifting the sanctions on Iranian oil, which can now be produced, delivered and sold through legal channels.
