According to the report from Reuters, QatarEnergy, the world's second-largest exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG), has adjusted its shipping routes, opting to avoid the Red Sea due to growing security apprehensions.
Qatar's LNG tankers, Al Ghariya, Al Huwaila, and Al Nuaman, initially en route to the Suez Canal after loading at Ras Laffan, halted in Oman on January 14, as per LSEG ship-tracking data.
The Al Rekayyat, returning to Qatar, also paused in the Red Sea on January 13.
In response to the altered route, the source stated, "It is a pause to get security advice. If passing through the Red Sea remains unsafe, we will go via the Cape," highlighting the strategic move by QatarEnergy.
The Qatari government and QatarEnergy have not provided immediate responses to requests for comment.
Approximately 12% of the world's shipping traffic transits the Suez Canal via the Red Sea.
Opting for the longer route around Africa's Cape of Good Hope, which several shipping firms have chosen, could extend the journey from Qatar to northwest Europe by about nine days, compared to the usual 18-day trip.
The decision to divert routes comes amid ongoing tensions in the region, with Houthi militants targeting vessels in the Red Sea.
Notably, the United States recently reported intercepting an anti-ship cruise missile fired by militants toward a U.S. destroyer. While emphasizing its commitment to protecting free navigation, U.S. ally Britain expressed a desire not to be involved in the Red Sea conflict.
On the other hand, China has also voiced concerns, calling for an end to attacks on civilian vessels in the Red Sea that pose potential risks to Beijing's commercial interests.
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