Blasts Over Jerusalem as Netanyahu Says Israel Acted Alone in Iran Gas Field Strikes

    M Firoz Al Mamun (Special Correspondent) Posted On Mar 20, 2026
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    Blasts Over Jerusalem as Netanyahu Says Israel Acted Alone in Iran Gas Field Strikes

    Explosions echoed across Jerusalem overnight as tensions in the Middle East escalated sharply, with missile sirens interrupting Eid celebrations and fresh strikes reported in Tehran.

    Residents in Jerusalem reported multiple warning alerts followed by loud booms in the sky, as Iran confirmed launching several waves of missiles in quick succession. 

    Despite the intensity, many locals appeared accustomed to such alerts, though the rapid sequence of sirens caught some by surprise during a night usually marked by festivities.

    Israel Claims Solo Strike on Key Gas Field

    Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu заявил that Israel carried out recent strikes on Iran’s South Pars gas field independently, dismissing speculation that the United States was directly involved.

    South Pars, one of the world’s largest natural gas reserves, is considered vital to Iran’s economy. Netanyahu also rejected claims that Israel had drawn the US into the conflict, calling such suggestions “misleading.”

    Iran Responds With Missile and Drone Attacks

    Iran retaliated with missile launches targeting Israeli territory and regional energy infrastructure. Air defence systems were activated in Tehran following new Israeli strikes, while explosions were reported by multiple sources across the Iranian capital.

    Beyond Israel and Iran, the conflict has spread across the region. Both Saudi Arabia and Bahrain reported intercepting drones, highlighting the widening scope of hostilities.

    Qatar Energy Facility Hit, Global Prices Surge

    Iran also launched an हमला on the Ras Laffan industrial complex in Qatar, a major hub for liquefied natural gas exports. Officials described the strike as a dangerous escalation, warning it could destabilize the entire region.

    Although many incoming threats were intercepted, some damage to facilities has been reported. The incident triggered a sharp rise in gas prices across Europe and the United Kingdom, adding pressure to already strained energy markets.

    Warnings of Further Escalation

    Iran’s foreign minister has warned that Tehran will respond with “zero restraint” if further attacks target its infrastructure. Meanwhile, international leaders are urging de-escalation as fears grow over prolonged conflict and disruption to global energy supplies.

    The situation remains fluid, with ongoing strikes, rising geopolitical tensions, and increasing concern about the broader economic impact of the conflict.

    Why Benjamin Netanyahu Said Israel “Acted Alone”

    Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel “acted alone” for several strategic and political reasons, not just as a simple statement of fact.

    1. To deny dragging the U.S. into war

    There has been growing criticism—especially in the U.S.—that Israel may have pulled Washington into a wider conflict with Iran. By saying Israel acted independently, Netanyahu is trying to:

    • Reduce pressure on the United States

    • Counter claims that Israel is escalating the war on behalf of others

    • Calm divisions inside U.S. politics

    2. To show Israel’s military capability

    By emphasizing a solo operation, Netanyahu is projecting strength. He wants to signal that:

    • Israel can strike high-value targets like the South Pars gas field on its own

    • It does not rely entirely on allies for critical operations
      This is also meant as a warning to Iran.

    3. To avoid wider regional escalation

    If the attack were seen as a joint U.S.-Israel operation, it could:

    • Trigger direct retaliation against American forces

    • Pull more countries into the conflict
      By framing it as Israel-only, he may be trying to limit how far Iran expands its response.

    4. To manage diplomatic pressure

    Countries in Europe and the Middle East are already concerned about energy security and rising tensions. Saying Israel acted alone helps:

    • Reduce international backlash against a broader coalition

    • Keep diplomatic channels open with countries that might oppose a wider war

    5. Domestic political messaging

    Inside Israel, Netanyahu often frames military actions as necessary for national security. This statement reinforces:

    • His leadership image

    • The idea that Israel is proactively defending itself

    Bottom line

    It’s not just about who carried out the strike—it’s about controlling the narrative. Netanyahu is trying to balance military action with political messaging to avoid a larger, uncontrollable war while still appearing strong.

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