Saudi Arabia has strongly condemned an attack on a Qatari liquefied natural gas (LNG) tanker in the Gulf, emphasizing its opposition to threats against maritime security and global energy supplies. The Saudi foreign ministry denounced the targeting of the al-Mayeda, an LNG carrier owned by Qatar Gas Transport Company, in a statement released on Sunday.
The condemnation follows a report from Qatar’s state news agency that the al-Mayeda was struck by “unidentified objects” while transiting Gulf waters on Friday evening. Fortunately, no crew members were injured, and the attack caused no environmental damage. The vessel remained operational and in a safe condition, according to the Qatar News Agency.
Saudi Arabia expressed solidarity with Qatar, supporting measures to protect its vessels and ensure the safety of international trade. The kingdom also urged the international community to take urgent action to safeguard maritime security and uphold international law.
The attack comes amid heightened tensions in the region, particularly since the US-Israeli war on Iran began in February. Tehran has targeted vessels in the Strait of Hormuz and the wider Gulf, demanding authorization for ships to transit. Meanwhile, the United States has imposed a naval blockade on Iranian ports.
Qatar, a key mediator in the conflict, has recently intensified diplomatic efforts to revive negotiations between Washington and Tehran aimed at ending the war.