The tanker Al Mayeda, registered under the Marshall Islands flag, was en route to the Strait of Hormuz with a cargo of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Qatar when it was suddenly targeted. According to available information, this tanker had received clearance from Iranian officials for safe passage before the attack.
Details of the Attack and Its Consequences
The tanker was attacked with two projectiles while it was heading towards the Strait of Hormuz. Following the incident, the tanker altered its course and returned towards the Persian Gulf. Qatari officials announced that in light of this incident, they would take all necessary measures in accordance with international law and the United Nations Charter to protect their assets and ensure the safety of their vessels and crews.
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India's Shipping Minister, Sarbananda Sonowal, stated in a declaration that this tanker was targeted in a missile attack and all 25 crew members, including six Indian nationals, are safe. Qatar Gas Transport (Nakilat) also announced that the tanker remains operational and they are assessing its condition.
Implications and Challenges Ahead for Pakistan
This incident underscores the importance of securing LNG-carrying vessels in the Strait of Hormuz and presents new challenges for Pakistan. Facing energy shortages due to unrest in the Middle East, Pakistan may be forced to turn to spot markets, where prices are more than three times the pre-war levels.
In recent months, Pakistan has been in contact with Iranian officials to ensure the safety of several LNG shipments from Qatar, all of which have successfully passed through the Oman passage. However, the occurrence of this incident could have a significant impact on Pakistan's energy plans.
The Ministry of Petroleum of Pakistan, the Ministry of Energy of Qatar, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Iran have not yet responded to requests for comments on this event. In October, LNG flow through the Strait of Hormuz has remained consistently at about 30 percent of pre-war levels. Since September, Qatar has been continuously sending LNG through this passage, including using older vessels that can reduce additional insurance costs associated with risky voyages.
Read more: Collision of tanker with a sea mine in the Strait of Hormuz caused a fire · Attacks on the Al Mayeda tanker with Iran's approval in the Strait of Hormuz
