Muscat: Two LNG tankers, Rasheeda and Al Daayen, carrying Qatari gas shipments changed destination to Pakistan and were later seen circling in the Persian Gulf near Oman after attempting earlier Monday to approach the Strait of Hormuz, according to ship-tracking data from MarineTraffic. The vessels initially moved toward the strategic waterway from Qatar, suggesting a potential attempt by loaded Qatari LNG carriers to exit the Gulf through Hormuz for the first time since the conflict began on February 28. However, tracking data later indicated both vessels reversed their course.

According to Anadolu Agency, vessel records showed the tankers subsequently listed Pakistan as their new destination. Despite this, their recent movements indicate uncertainty about whether they would attempt another transit through the strait. Currently, the ships are positioned near Oman after turning back from their initial route.

This development occurs amid ongoing regional conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran, greatly disrupting normal shipping operations through the Strait of Hormuz. This strait is a critical passage for global seaborne oil and gas trade, and any interruptions in this area have immediate consequences for energy markets and regional shipping logistics. Reports suggest that if the vessels had completed their passage, they would have marked the first loaded LNG cargo transit through the strait since the onset of regional tensions.

Oman, concerned about the disrupted shipping routes, stated on April 5 that it had engaged in discussions with Iran to explore options for ensuring smoother passage through the Strait of Hormuz during these tense times.