DOHA — Qatar announced the immediate expulsion of Iranian military and security attachés Tuesday after confirming that Iranian missiles caused severe structural damage to the Ras Laffan liquefied natural gas complex, the emirate's primary energy export hub.

The attack targeted Qatar's most strategic economic asset, with initial assessments indicating damage to at least three processing trains that handle approximately 77 million tonnes of LNG annually. Industry sources report the facility may remain partially offline for several months while repairs proceed. The timing coincides with peak winter demand from European and Asian markets still recovering from energy supply disruptions.

"This represents a direct assault on Qatar's economic sovereignty and regional energy stability," said Dr. Nasser Al-Khalifi, director of the Gulf Research Institute. The expelled Iranian personnel had maintained offices in Doha under a 2019 security cooperation agreement that Qatar now considers void. Iranian officials have not responded to requests for comment, though Tehran previously denied responsibility for similar regional incidents.

Qatar's response signals a dramatic shift from its traditional policy of maintaining diplomatic balance between Iran and Gulf Arab states. The emirate had served as a crucial mediator in regional disputes, hosting both Iranian officials and US military assets. "Doha's decision reflects the reality that economic interests ultimately trump diplomatic neutrality when core national assets face direct threats," observed Sarah Mitchell, Middle East analyst at the International Crisis Group.