Qatar Prolongs LNG Force Majeure Amid Strait of Hormuz Disruptions Threatening Winter Supplies

Qatar has extended the force majeure on liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipments destined for Asia and Europe for an additional month. This decision comes as ongoing disruptions continue to severely impact energy flows through the Strait of Hormuz.

According to individuals familiar with the matter, the state-owned QatarEnergy notified Pakistan and Bangladesh this week that LNG shipment cancellations will extend through November. Two other sources confirmed that at least one Indian buyer received notice that the measure will remain active, while Italy’s Edison stated that its deliveries will stay suspended until early December.

QatarEnergy did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The company has consistently updated its LNG customers regarding the force majeure, issuing shipment cancellations approximately once a month since the Iran war began.

Although Qatar has managed to slightly increase shipments through the crucial waterway this month, overall flows remain well below prewar levels. Recently, Iran declared it would not soften its conditions to reopen Hormuz, whereas President Donald Trump conveyed mixed signals regarding his willingness to negotiate a deal.

The ongoing disruption threatens to keep energy supplies constrained along a vital route that accounted for approximately one-fifth of global LNG supply last year, with a peace agreement between the US and Iran remaining elusive. This tight squeeze has driven LNG prices in Europe and Asia to levels not seen since late 2022, raising concerns over soaring utility bills during the Northern Hemisphere winter.

Meanwhile, Qatar has continued operating its Ras Laffan LNG export facility at a reduced capacity following the attack and damage it sustained in March. The plant remains on standby, prepared to rapidly ramp up output as soon as the Strait of Hormuz reopens.