How has the Middle East conflict affected global LNG supply and regional competition for gas?

The Middle East conflict has choked off LNG flows from the Persian Gulf—previously accounting for about a fifth of global supplies—rattling the seaborne gas market and forcing Europe and Asia to compete for a limited pool of alternative cargoes, especially amid heat waves lifting demand in some countries.

ChemBrief

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Qatar Extends LNG Force Majeure for European, Asian Buyers

Q: What is the reason QatarEnergy extended force majeure on LNG shipments to European and Asian buyers, and how long does the extension last?

QatarEnergy extended force majeure on liquefied natural gas shipments for European and Asian customers due to security concerns following an attack on one of its tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, which raised fears that transit through the crucial waterway remains too risky; the extension cancels deliveries to Europe through the end of September, up from an earlier cutoff date earlier in the month.

Jul 28, 2026

QatarEnergy extended force majeure on LNG shipments to European and Asian buyers through September due to regional security risks. This contraction tightens global supply outlook as nations compete for fuel inventories ahead of winter.

bloomberg

2026-01-27

QatarEnergy and Air Liquide Ink Helium Supply Deal

2026-03-02

QatarEnergy Halts LNG, Associated Output at Ras Laffan, Mesaieed After Drone Attacks

2026-03-04

QatarEnergy declares force majeure after LNG production halt

2026-03-18

QatarEnergy Site Damaged by Strike; Crude Climbs as Other Energy Sites Evacuated

2026-03-20

QatarEnergy Expects 3-5 Years to Repair LNG Facilities After Missile Strikes