At least four oil and gas tankers turned back from the Strait of Hormuz after fresh attacks on commercial vessels heightened security concerns in the strategic waterway. The disruptions have raised fears over global energy supplies and maritime safety. Oil producers, shipping companies, and international markets are closely monitoring the rapidly evolving situation.
Ship-tracking data showed that three QatarEnergy-controlled liquefied natural gas tankers changed course while heading toward Qatar’s Ras Laffan export terminal. The vessels, identified as Al Ghariya, Duhail, and Al Ruwais, were travelling empty before reversing course late Tuesday. An Indian-flagged tanker carrying two million barrels of Kuwaiti crude also turned back near the entrance to the Strait of Hormuz after approaching the shipping lane.
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The diversions followed attacks that damaged a Qatari LNG tanker and a Saudi-flagged crude oil tanker near the strait. Reports said Iran launched missiles toward vessels operating in the area, prompting maritime authorities to raise the threat level for ships transiting the waterway to “severe.” Shipping analysts reported growing congestion as more than ten empty tankers waited near Ras Laffan to load cargoes. Several vessels also switched off their tracking systems to reduce security risks.
Despite the heightened danger, some commercial traffic continued through the waterway. Two very large crude carriers successfully exited the Strait of Hormuz carrying crude oil from Qatar and Saudi Arabia. Industry data showed that LNG exports from Qatar and the United Arab Emirates have continued since the conflict began, although recent disruptions remain well below normal monthly export volumes.
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The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most important energy corridors, carrying a significant share of global oil and liquefied natural gas exports. Analysts warn that continued attacks or shipping disruptions could increase energy prices, disrupt supply chains, and deepen uncertainty across international markets if regional tensions continue to escalate.