Qatari LNG tanker attacked near Hormuz despite Iranian clearance

A Qatari liquefied natural gas carrier, Al Mayeda, was struck by unidentified objects while transiting the Arabian Gulf near the Strait of Hormuz on Friday evening, according to Qatar Gas Transport Company (Nakilat). The attack occurred despite the vessel having received clearance from Iranian authorities hours before, according to reports citing sources familiar with diplomatic discussions. Pakistan had negotiated safe passage for the Marshall Islands-flagged tanker with Iranian officials as part of efforts to secure energy supplies amid regional conflict. All 25 crew members, including six Indian nationals, remained safe with no injuries or environmental damage reported. The vessel subsequently reversed course and returned toward the Persian Gulf.

Qatar's Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the incident as "a dangerous act that threatens the safety of maritime navigation and the security of global energy supplies," and said investigations were underway to identify those responsible. The company confirmed the vessel remained in safe operational condition, though the impact assessment was ongoing. It remains unclear whether Al Mayeda will resume its journey to Pakistan or whether the shipment will reach its intended destination. The incident marks the latest attack on commercial shipping in the region, with more than 120 vessels hit since the conflict began in February, according to data from the International Maritime Organization and UK Maritime Trade Operations.

Pakistan has relied on diplomatic engagement with Iran to secure passage for Qatari LNG shipments over recent weeks, with earlier vessels successfully crossing the Strait of Hormuz into the Gulf of Oman. The latest attack threatens to complicate these arrangements as Pakistan grapples with energy shortages driven by regional disruptions. LNG shipments through Hormuz remained at approximately 30% of pre-war volumes during October. Qatar has maintained LNG exports through the waterway since September, including shipments aboard older vessels designed to reduce insurance costs associated with dangerous crossings.