Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) issued an urgent evacuation order on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, for critical oil and gas facilities in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Qatar. The warning, reported by Iran's semi-official Mehr News Agency, specifically named Saudi Arabia's Samref Refinery and Jubail Petrochemical Complex, the UAE's Al Hosn Gas Field, and Qatar's Mesaieed Petrochemical Complex and Ras Laffan Refinery as potential targets.
The IRGC statement advised all citizens, residents, and employees near these sites to evacuate immediately, citing an imminent security threat. This escalation follows reported attacks on Iranian oil facilities in South Pars and Asaluyeh earlier this week, which Axios attributed to Israeli strikes coordinated with the United States.
Analysts suggest the warning reflects heightened regional tensions, with potential implications for global energy markets. Oil prices surged 3.2% in Asian trading following the announcement, underscoring investor concerns about supply chain stability in the Gulf.
Business leaders and governments worldwide are closely monitoring the situation, as the targeted facilities account for approximately 12% of global liquefied natural gas exports and 8% of refined petroleum products. The UAE and Qatar have yet to issue official responses, while Saudi authorities have increased security at key energy installations.
