Doha, March 18 (NationPress) Qatar has issued a strong condemnation against what it characterized as a "brazen Iranian assault" on Ras Laffan Industrial City, which has reportedly led to fires and considerable destruction of the LNG facility.

In an official announcement, Qatar labeled this attack as a serious escalation, a blatant infringement of national sovereignty, and a direct menace to its security and the stability of the region.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs asserted that despite Qatar’s efforts to remain neutral in the ongoing conflict and its dedication to avoiding further escalation, Iran has persistently targeted Qatar and its neighboring nations, adopting an irresponsible stance that jeopardizes both regional safety and global peace.

The ministry underscored Qatar's consistent appeal for all parties to refrain from targeting civilian and energy infrastructure, including those within Iran, to protect regional resources and maintain global tranquility. However, it pointed out that Iran's ongoing aggressive policies are pushing the region to a tipping point and may draw in nations not directly involved in the conflict.

Qatar reiterated that the attack represents a violation of the United Nations Security Council Resolution 2817. It renewed its appeal for the UN Security Council to carry out its responsibilities in safeguarding international peace and security, demanding necessary actions to stop such grave violations and hold perpetrators accountable.

The ministry also reaffirmed that Qatar reserves the right to retaliate in accordance with Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, which guarantees the right to self-defense. It stressed that the nation will take all required measures to safeguard its sovereignty, security, and the well-being of its citizens and residents.

Additionally, Qatar declared the Iranian Embassy’s military and security attaches, along with the personnel of the respective offices, as "persona non grata," ordering them to exit the country within 24 hours.

This decision was communicated through an official note during a meeting between Ibrahim Yousif Fakhro, Director of Protocol at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Iran’s Ambassador to Qatar, Ali Salehabadi.

The ministry explained that this action is in response to Iran’s repeated aggression and blatant violations against Qatar, which undermined its sovereignty and security, in clear breach of international law, United Nations Security Council Resolution No. 2817, and the principles of good neighborliness.

It also emphasized that persistent hostile actions from the Iranian side will prompt Qatar to implement further measures to ensure the protection of its sovereignty, security, and national interests.

Reiterating its position, the ministry stated that Qatar maintains the right to enact all necessary steps, in accordance with international law, to ensure its sovereignty and security.