Four LNG tankers crossed the Strait of Hormuz discreetly
Global maritime traffic has witnessed significant developments recently, with specialized reports indicating that at least four liquefied natural gas (LNG) tankers transited the strategic Strait of Hormuz in the past two weeks. A notable aspect of these operations is the vessels' use of transponders (AIS) switching off during transit, a measure reflecting the heightened state of caution among ship operators amid escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
The strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz to global energy security
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most important and sensitive waterways, connecting the Persian Gulf, the Gulf of Oman, and the Arabian Sea. Historically, this strait has played a crucial role in the stability of energy markets, as approximately one-fifth of the world's crude oil consumption, as well as a significant portion of global gas supplies, passes through it. Many Asian and European countries rely heavily on the smooth flow of energy through this narrow waterway. In this context, the protection of liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers, which transport shipments of immense financial and strategic value, is of paramount importance, especially given that the global LNG fleet is relatively small compared to conventional oil tankers, making any threat to it a potential crisis for international supply chains.
Details concealed by LNG tankers during transit
According to maritime tracking firm Kpler, five LNG tanker transits were recorded without their tracking devices activated. Laura Paige, an analyst at the company, explained that operators have become extremely cautious since the recent conflicts in the region. Data shows that the vessel Sohar transited the strait empty between March 1 and April 21.
Since April 22, five transits have been recorded by four tankers linked to the UAE. Two of these transits were cargo-laden: the tanker Mubarraz on April 23 and the tanker Marwa on April 27. The Mubarraz switched off its tracking devices on March 28 after loading a cargo from Das Island and reactivated them on April 25 off the coast of India. The Marwa stopped transmitting its transponder on April 19 off Khor Fakkan and later reactivated it near the Strait of Malacca, heading towards Japan. The Marwa's shipping log shows that it exclusively transports gas cargoes from Das Island to Asian markets such as China, India, and Japan.
In addition, two other tankers, the Al-Hamra and the Marigold, managed to enter the Gulf via the Strait of Hormuz without cargo. The Al-Hamra ceased its signal on April 19 and loaded its cargo on May 5, while the Marigold ceased its signal on May 3. According to Kpler data, the signals of these two vessels remain off and they have not yet left the Gulf.
Expected impacts on regional and international markets
The increasing use of concealment and the disabling of tracking systems by commercial vessels reflects a significant shift in maritime risk management strategies. Regionally, this situation is driving up insurance and shipping costs, straining the budgets of both exporting and importing companies. Internationally, any disruption or slowdown in LNG carrier traffic could lead to sharp fluctuations in energy prices, particularly in countries that rely almost entirely on imports to meet their industrial and domestic needs. These developments underscore the need for diplomatic and security solutions to guarantee freedom of navigation in international waterways and to prevent further shocks to the global economy that could derail growth and recovery.
