MOGADISHU (Kaab TV) – The Federal Government of Somalia has expressed its full solidarity with the State of Qatar following an incident at a gas facility in the Ras Laffan Industrial Area, reaffirming the strong ties between the two nations.
In a press statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation on June 23, Somalia conveyed its support for Qatar and expressed concern over the incident, which occurred at one of the country’s key energy facilities.
The Ras Laffan incident was a major industrial explosion and fire that occurred on June 21, 2026, at the Barzan gas processing facility inside Qatar’s Ras Laffan Industrial City, one of the world’s largest natural gas and LNG hubs. Authorities said the blast happened during the restart of operations at the facility and was caused by a technical or operational accident, not sabotage or a military attack
According to Qatari officials, at least 13 people were killed and 66 others injured in the explosion. Emergency crews quickly responded and brought the fire under control, while an investigation was launched to determine the exact cause of the accident.
The incident drew significant attention because Ras Laffan is a critical energy center that processes and exports a large share of Qatar’s liquefied natural gas (LNG).
The Somali government described Qatar as a close and brotherly partner and emphasized its confidence in the country’s ability to effectively respond to the situation. Mogadishu also reiterated its commitment to standing alongside Qatar during challenging circumstances and wished for the continued safety and wellbeing of its people.
The statement comes amid heightened regional tensions in the Gulf and the wider Middle East, where concerns over security and the protection of critical infrastructure have drawn international attention. Ras Laffan is one of the world’s largest natural gas processing and export hubs and plays a significant role in global energy markets.
Somalia and Qatar maintain strong diplomatic relations and have cooperated closely in areas including development, humanitarian assistance, infrastructure, education, and economic investment. Somali officials have frequently acknowledged Qatar’s support for development projects and humanitarian initiatives across Somalia.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs concluded by reaffirming Somalia’s support for peace, stability, and the protection of civilian and economic infrastructure throughout the region, while expressing hope that the situation would be resolved without further escalation.
