Qatar's lng exports to europe poised to bypass iran in historic shift

Two tankers laden with liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Qatar appear to be heading towards the Strait of Hormuz, a move that could mark the first export of the fuel from the Persian Gulf to buyers outside the region since the U.S.-led war against Iran began. The vessels, Al Daayen and Rasheeda, loaded their cargo at Qatar's export plant in late February and have been traveling east towards Oman's strategic waters.

Strait's reopening could be a lifeline for qatar

The possible passage through the Strait, now largely sealed off by Iranian restrictions since the conflict escalated, would provide a much-needed boost for Qatar, the world's largest LNG exporter. Despite its Ras Laffan plant being shut since late January due to Iranian attacks, Qatar has still managed to supply nearly a fifth of global LNG in 2022.

The Al Daayen and Rasheeda are not expected to be the only tankers to make the historic voyage. Qatar has reportedly delivered two LNG shipments to Kuwait in recent weeks, with more supplies waiting in the Gulf.