The Qatari government has ordered the expulsion of Iran's military and security diplomats after Iran continuously fired missiles at Qatar, with one missile landing at the Ras Laffan Industrial City, a vital fuel production site.
On 18 Mar 2026 GMT+7, Qatar declared Iran's military and security envoys "persona non grata," ordering them to leave the country within 24 hours. This directive followed repeated Iranian attacks violating Qatar's sovereignty.
This announcement came shortly after Qatar reported that the Ras Laffan Natural Gas Industrial City, a cornerstone of the Gulf state's economy, was targeted in an Iranian missile strike, causing a severe fire. Officials have since contained the blaze and confirmed no injuries.
In a statement released on Wednesday (18 Mar), Qatar's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it had formally notified the Iranian embassy in Doha that the military and security diplomats, along with their office staff, must leave the country.
The ministry described the measure as a "response to Iran’s repeated targeting of the State of Qatar and blatant aggression," warning Iran to end its "hostile approach" or face assured retaliation to safeguard Qatar’s sovereignty, security, and national interests.
The missile attack on Ras Laffan occurred after Tehran accused the U.S. and Israel of attacking Iranian oil and gas facilities. Tehran threatened retaliation by striking energy sites in the region.
.cnn