Qatar Turns to US LNG as Iran War Disrupts Supplies

Qatar is seeking to diversify its liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies due to disruptions caused by the Iran war. The country's state-owned energy company, QatarEnergy, is in talks with US suppliers for long-term agreements. These discussions are a response to the crippling effect of the war on Qatar's ability to supply its customers.

The conflict has severely impacted Qatar's LNG shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, forcing it to look for alternative sources. The country used to account for about 20% of global LNG supplies but has seen its exports grind to a halt since the start of the war in late February. QatarEnergy's Ras Laffan LNG export plant, the world's largest, was damaged by an Iranian strike and may take up to three years to fully repair.

Qatar already has access to some US supply through its ownership stake in the Golden Pass LNG plant in Texas and its trading unit, which focuses on shorter-term deals. However, these new discussions indicate a shift towards long-term agreements as Qatar seeks to expand its portfolio outside of the Middle East.