Qatar to resume normal LNG output in a few weeks: PM Al-Thani

QATAR: Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani has announced that the Gulf state will resume normal liquefied natural gas (LNG) production within a few weeks, signalling a potential easing of disruptions caused by regional conflict.

Sheikh al-Thani told the Financial Times that full operations would soon be restored at facilities affected by the suspension.

QatarEnergy had halted LNG production following a drone attack on its massive Ras Laffan plant, which occurred after the United States and Israel launched military action against Iran on February 28.

The development comes amid heightened tensions in the Gulf, where the Strait of Hormuz a critical chokepoint for global energy shipments has been impacted by the ongoing conflict.

Hotline with US and Iran ‘Essential’

The Qatari premier stressed the importance of establishing a direct communication channel between Washington and Tehran to facilitate the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

Such a hotline, he argued, is crucial for de-escalating the situation and restoring safe passage for maritime traffic in the vital waterway.

The resumption of Qatari LNG output is expected to help stabilise global energy supplies, which have faced volatility since the suspension. Qatar, one of the world’s largest LNG exporters, plays a pivotal role in meeting demand across Asia and Europe.