Second Qatari LNG tanker sails to Pakistan through Strait of Hormuz

A second Qatari liquefied natural gas tanker is passing through the Strait of Hormuz toward Pakistan under arrangements involving Iran and Pakistan, as cargo movement through the waterway continues on a limited and case-by-case basis amid regional tensions.

Shipping data showed the vessel Mihzem, which has a capacity of 174,000 cubic metres, departed Qatar’s Ras Laffan terminal and is heading toward Port Qasim in Pakistan, where it is expected to arrive on May 12.

The shipment marks the second successful transit of a Qatari LNG tanker through the strait since the start of the Iran conflict.

Earlier, the tanker Al Kharaitiyat crossed the Strait of Hormuz through a northern route approved by Iran after beginning its passage on Saturday and completing the transit the following day.

Sources familiar with the matter said the LNG cargoes are being supplied to Pakistan under a government-to-government agreement with Qatar, with Iran approving the shipments as part of confidence-building measures involving Islamabad and Doha.

Two additional Qatari LNG tankers are expected to head to Pakistan in the coming days, according to sources.

Pakistan has been engaged in discussions with Iran to secure limited passage for LNG vessels through the strait as the country attempts to manage gas shortages and maintain fuel supplies.

Sources said Iran agreed to facilitate safe transit for vessels carrying gas destined for Pakistan under its long-term LNG agreement with Qatar, the country’s main supplier.

Earlier this month, ADNOC also moved two LNG cargoes through the strait after vessel tracking signals were switched off, highlighting the operational risks surrounding shipping activity in the region.

Qatar remains the world’s second-largest LNG exporter, with most shipments directed toward Asian buyers. Iranian strikes have disrupted part of Qatar’s LNG export capacity, with repairs expected to affect millions of metric tons of annual supply for several years.