Hormuz LNG Shipments Rebounded in September
Operators should monitor supply chain recovery as regional LNG transit volumes show a gradual increase.
Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Oil and Gas
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Liquefied natural gas shipments through the Strait of Hormuz reached their highest monthly level since the start of the US-Israel conflict with Iran in September 2026. QatarEnergy resumed vessel transits from its Ras Laffan terminal, signaling a shift in shipping patterns.
Why it matters
The resumption of these routes impacts energy availability and logistics costs for industries dependent on stable LNG supplies in Europe and Asia. Operators must consider these regional volatility factors when managing energy procurement and risk mitigation strategies.
Nineteen LNG cargoes transited the Strait of Hormuz in September 2026, up from 15 in June 2026 but still far below pre-conflict levels. Shipping volumes could reach 25 percent of pre-war capacity in October 2026 if current trends hold.
The players
QatarEnergy
A state-owned petroleum company and one of the world's largest exporters of liquefied natural gas.
Ras Laffan
An industrial city and major export hub in Qatar that serves as a central node for the global LNG trade.
The details
QatarEnergy resumed transit from the Ras Laffan terminal using vessels including Al Kharaitiyat, Al Gharrafa, and Milaha Qatar. To navigate the high-risk zone, some vessels have reportedly deactivated their Automatic Identification System. Despite the increase in traffic, QatarEnergy has maintained force majeure notices for its international buyers, keeping supply contracts under pressure.
Timeline
June 2026: 15 LNG cargoes transited the Strait of Hormuz.
September 2026: 19 LNG cargoes transited the route.
Late September 2026: LNG traffic increased more rapidly.
October 2026: Projected volume could reach 25 percent of pre-war levels.
Market Landscape
This activity follows the major logistical freeze caused by the 2026 conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran. The recent movement marks the first significant departure from the near-total transit stoppage observed earlier this year.
Businesses relying on LNG should monitor volume trends for October 2026 as a bellwether for price volatility. Maintain flexibility in procurement contracts while force majeure notices remain active for major exporters.
The takeaway
The gradual normalization of Strait of Hormuz traffic suggests a pivot in regional maritime risk management. Operators should track the conversion of current transit volume into reliable contract fulfillment as a signal for future supply chain stability.
Further reading
For broader trends in global energy logistics, explore our Oil and Gas section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Idnfinancials.
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