LNG Shipments Through Strait of Hormuz Reach Pre-War Levels Despite Ongoing Tensions

Liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipments through the Strait of Hormuz have reached their highest level since the US-Israeli war on Iran began, despite persistent security concerns and uncertainty.

According to data from analytics firms, a total of 19 LNG cargoes exited the key waterway in September, consisting of 13 from Qatar and six from the United Arab Emirates. This marks an increase from the June figure of 15, when a pact between the US and Iran had started to take effect.

Eric Yep, a senior principal analyst at SP Global Energy, noted that LNG transits through the Strait accelerated in the second half of September and could recover to pre-war levels if maintained into October. He also highlighted concerns about whether these transits can be sustained through winter, citing potential military escalation by Iran and increased costs for shipping convoys under US naval escorts.