Israel Informed US Before Striking Iran's South Pars Gas Field; Washington Stayed Out

Last Updated:March 19, 2026, 07:12 IST

Sources said it was unclear whether the US backed Israel’s decision to target the gas facility, which forms part of the world’s largest natural gas reserve.

Israel informed the United States ahead of its strike on Iran’s South Pars gas field in the Persian Gulf, but Washington did not take part in the operation, according to a report.

According to sources cited by the Associated Press, Israel carried out the strike on Wednesday after giving prior intimation to US officials.

The sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said it was unclear whether the US administration backed Israel’s decision to target the gas facility, which forms part of the world’s largest natural gas reserve and is central to Iran’s energy supply.

The strike reportedly set facilities near Asaluyeh ablaze, escalating tensions in the region. Tehran warned of retaliation, threatening to hit energy infrastructure in other Gulf countries, a move that heightened fears over regional energy security and potential economic fallout.

Markets reacted swiftly, with global oil prices jumping around five per cent to above $108 a barrel amid concerns that the conflict could disrupt supplies.

Those fears appeared to materialise within hours when authorities in Qatar said a ballistic missile struck a key gas facility, triggering a fire that caused extensive damage. Doha subsequently expelled several Iranian embassy officials.

Since hostilities began on February 28, Iran has repeatedly targeted energy facilities across the Persian Gulf and disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply.

Iran and its ally Hezbollah have also launched drones and missiles at Israel.

The conflict has so far claimed at least 1,300 lives in Iran, more than 960 in Lebanon and 14 in Israel, according to official figures.

The US military has reported 13 American service members killed and around 200 wounded.

News world Israel Informed US Before Striking Iran's South Pars Gas Field; Washington Stayed Out

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