Four liquefied natural gas (LNG) vessels from Qatar were observed again in tracking systems after transiting the Strait of Hormuz on October 2 and 3, 2023. These transits continue amid ongoing security risks stemming from international tensions and the U.S. and Israel's war against Iran.
Details of the Cargoes and Vessels
The vessels Bou Samera, Al-Qatrah, and Al-Sad, all affiliated with Qatar Energy, were seen on these dates. The Al-Qatrah announced its destination as Zhejiang Province in China, and the Al-Sad delivered its cargo at the Dahaj terminal in India on October 3. The fourth vessel, Al-Kharsah, is managed by C-PIC Maritime.
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These four vessels were last seen transiting the Strait of Hormuz between September 18 and 27, 2023. Many vessels passing through this waterway turn off their automatic identification system transmitters to avoid detection and navigate in what is known as "silent passage."
Presence of Other Vessels and Their Tracking
On October 2, another vessel named Al-Marounah, also managed by C-PIC Maritime, appeared without cargo in the Strait of Hormuz near the shores of Qatar in tracking systems. This vessel had previously been tracked outside this waterway, indicating ongoing movements in the area.
Despite existing security challenges, these transits, particularly for Qatari LNG, may indicate a gradual return of gas flow through this vital route. Experts believe that the continuous movement of these vessels could have significant impacts on the global energy market and reflect Qatar's efforts to maintain and develop its trade relations with consumer countries.
The number of vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz and the types of cargoes, especially under current conditions, are of great importance. This strategic waterway plays a key role in supplying energy to various countries as one of the most important oil and gas transport routes in the world. Additionally, these movements could clearly indicate the challenges and opportunities facing the energy market in the future.
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