On Thursday, Doha experienced several powerful explosions that were described as among the most intense since the military actions began over the weekend. This situation escalated after Israel and the US initiated strikes against Iran, which in turn retaliated against Israeli and US military bases in the Gulf states. Journalists from AFP reported seeing a large column of black smoke rising over the horizon in Doha.

The aftermath of the explosions extended beyond Qatar, as similar incidents were reported in Bahrain's capital, Manama. Saudi Arabian officials announced that three cruise missiles and multiple drones had been intercepted, indicating a significant increase in regional military tensions. Moreover, an explosion affecting a tanker in Kuwaiti coastal waters led to an oil spill, further complicating the situation and raising concerns about environmental impacts in the region.

In a striking declaration, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard claimed to have full control over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments. This assertion suggests that Iran is prepared to exert its influence in a crucial area that sees a significant volume of the world's oil, heightening fears that the ongoing conflict could disrupt international oil markets and increase prices amid already rising geopolitical tensions.