Decline in Energy Shipments and LNG Transportation in the Strait of Hormuz
Following regional conflicts, while oil flow through the Strait of Hormuz has decreased significantly, the sharp drop in LNG transportation draws attention.
Following the war between the US and Israel with Iran, the daily amount of oil passing through the Strait of Hormuz decreased by 77 percent, and the amount of LNG decreased by 92 percent.
Sharp Drop in Oil and LNG Flow
According to data from the US Energy Information Administration, while 21.6 million barrels of oil per day passed through the Strait of Hormuz in the last quarter of 2025, this amount dropped to 4.9 million barrels per day after the outbreak of the war.
During the same period, daily LNG flow dropped from 10.5 billion cubic feet to 800 million cubic feet, registering a 92 percent decrease.
Impacts on Global LNG Supply
According to the Gas Exporting Countries Forum, one-fifth of global supply passes through the Strait of Hormuz, which is the sole maritime route used for LNG exports by Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.
Due to the conflicts, more than 300 LNG cargoes from Qatar and approximately 20 from the UAE could not be shipped during the March-June period.
Alternative Routes and Vessel Traffic
On the oil side, with Saudi Arabia activating its pipeline, the amount of oil passing through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait rose to 8.1 million barrels per day.
According to Clarksons Research data, while 16 LNG vessels passed during the week of June 21-27, no LNG vessel transits were recorded during the week of August 23-29.
Infrastructure and Flexibility Differences
Experts state that oil possesses a more flexible tanker fleet and extensive storage capacity, whereas LNG infrastructure lacks the same flexibility.
The fact that all of Qatar's maritime LNG exports have to pass through the Strait of Hormuz prevents finding alternative outlets.