Global Energy Crisis — 2026-04-06

Two Qatar LNG Tankers Attempt First Hormuz Exit Since War Began as Dozens Idle Across Asia

Two LNG tankers, Al Daayen and Rasheeda, loaded in late February are moving toward the Strait of Hormuz in what would be the first Qatari LNG export through the waterway since the war began. Over four dozen empty Qatari tankers are idling across Asia from West India to Singapore after QatarEnergy declared force majeure on March 4 following Iranian attacks on its Ras Laffan facilities. A successful transit would be the first concrete sign of the blockade's loosening.

Analysis
If Al Daayen and Rasheeda successfully exit Hormuz, it would be the first Qatari LNG export since the war began, a direct test of whether Iran's blockade is loosening or whether these transits are approved through the Larak Island checkpoint. The tankers loaded in late February, meaning this cargo has been trapped for over five weeks. Watch for IRGC response; passage would challenge the "never return" rhetoric.

2 sources

Two Tankers With Qatar LNG Attempt First Hormuz Exit Since Iran War Started - Bloomberg
Qatar's LNG Tankers Idle Across Asia as Export Plant Stays Shut - Bloomberg