New Delhi, June 22 -- A powerful explosion struck Qatar's main natural gas export terminal on Sunday night as workers were attempting to restart operations following Iranian attacks during the war. The incident triggered a major fire, injuring at least 54 people, while 18 others remained unaccounted for several hours later.

The blast occurred in the Ras Laffan industrial area, a critical hub for Qatar's energy sector, raising concerns about further disruption to global energy markets, according to AP. Qatar is one of the world's leading producers and exporters of natural gas.

Production had previously been suspended after Iran's restrictions on the Strait of Hormuz severely disrupted shipping routes, preventing Qatar from delivering ene...