Qatar's Al Daayen and Rasheeda LNG tankers diverted from the Strait of Hormuz, delaying potential first post-war exports outside the region. Ship-tracking data shows the vessels initially steered toward Hormuz near Oman but reversed course, with Al Daayen now en route to China. No LNG tanker has traversed Hormuz since U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran began in late February, disrupting 20% of global LNG flows.**

The closure has forced Qatar to reroute shipments, including two recent deliveries to Kuwait bypassing Hormuz entirely. These supplies originated from Qatar’s storage tanks, avoiding the need for transit through the contested waterway. Meanwhile, QatarEnergy’s Ras Laffan plant—the world’s largest LNG export hub—remains shut due to Iranian attacks, limiting production capacity. Industry analysts suggest Qatar may prioritize regional deliveries or offload stored cargo to mitigate losses.

Iran’s blockade has selectively allowed passage for vessels tied to U.S.-aligned nations, such as French and Japanese ships, but no Qatar-linked energy cargo has cleared Hormuz. The impasse underscores geopolitical tensions constraining energy markets, with Qatar seeking alternative routes to maintain its role as a top LNG exporter.

Key implications: The Hormuz blockade risks exacerbating global LNG shortages, while Qatar’s strategic pivot highlights vulnerabilities in energy infrastructure. Analysts warn prolonged disruptions could reshape Middle East energy dynamics, forcing buyers to reassess supply chains.