Qatar FM Stresses Urgent Need to Keep Strait of Hormuz Open

Qatar’s foreign minister has warned that keeping the Strait of Hormuz open is critical as tensions in the Middle East threaten one of the world’s most important energy shipping routes.

Speaking amid rising regional tensions, Qatar’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al-Khulaifi said freedom of navigation through the strategic waterway must be protected. He said safe passage for ships through the Strait of Hormuz is essential for the Gulf region as well as global energy markets and economic stability.

The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow passage between Iran and Oman, is one of the world’s key maritime chokepoints. Nearly one-fifth of global oil supplies and large volumes of liquefied natural gas (LNG) pass through the strait each day, making it central to international trade and global oil supply.

The ongoing conflict involving Iran has disrupted shipping through the waterway. Oil tanker traffic has dropped as security risks increase, with Iran reportedly threatening vessels attempting to pass through the strait. Shipping companies and insurers are reassessing risks linked to routes through the Gulf.

The disruption has already affected energy exports and pushed global oil prices higher. Concerns over possible blockades or attacks on vessels have led some shipping operators to delay voyages or consider alternative routes, though options remain limited due to geography and infrastructure.

The situation has also affected Gulf energy producers. Qatar LNG exports, among the largest in the world, have been impacted after the country halted gas production and declared force majeure on several shipments as maritime routes remain uncertain. The move has raised concerns about supply disruptions, especially in Asian and European markets that depend on Gulf energy exports.

Qatar’s foreign minister said the issue goes beyond regional politics and warned that instability in the Strait of Hormuz could have global consequences. He called for international cooperation to ensure freedom of navigation and protect global energy security.

Governments and maritime security agencies are examining measures to protect vessels passing through the strait, including increased naval patrols and possible escort missions for commercial tankers.

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Energy analysts warn that prolonged disruption in the Strait of Hormuz could drive higher oil prices, affect global supply chains, and place additional pressure on international markets already facing geopolitical uncertainty.