Qatar Seeks US LNG Deals Amid Iran War Disruption

Qatar is seeking long-term liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies from US suppliers as its exports are disrupted by the war in Iran. According to Bloomberg, Qatar's state-owned energy company is negotiating deals with US LNG projects that are already operational and those under construction.

The move marks a shift for Doha, which has typically sourced LNG from West Asia. Qatar accounted for around 20% of global LNG exports before the war began in late February, but its shipments have nearly halted due to increased risks to gas carriers navigating the Strait of Hormuz.

The Ras Laffan LNG facility, operated by Qatar's energy company, suffered extensive damage during the conflict and is expected to take three to five years to fully repair. The US-based Golden Pass LNG terminal, in which Qatar has a stake, began operations in April and is gradually increasing output.