Al Mayeda LNG carrier struck by unidentified objects, says Al Jazeera

Global energy supplies face renewed strain following an attack on a Qatari liquefied natural gas carrier in the Gulf, drawing sharp regional condemnations and exposing merchant crews to escalating military hazards. The Marshall Islands-flagged LNG carrier Al Mayeda, operated by the Qatar Gas Transport Company, was struck by unidentified objects while sailing in the Persian Gulf on Friday evening, according to statements published by the Qatar Stock Exchange and reported by Al Jazeera.

Vessel Status and Crew Safety After the Strike

The projectile impact left the LNG carrier in a safe and operational condition while authorities assess the damage, the Qatar Gas Transport Company announced. None of the 25 crew members aboard the vessel sustained injuries, and no environmental contamination was recorded at the site. Union Ports, Shipping and Waterways Minister Sarbananda Sonowal confirmed that six Indian nationals among the crew were safe, noting that New Delhi remains in contact with the ship management company to monitor the situation.

Arab Nations Condemn Attacks on Energy Carriers

Doha slammed the incident as a dangerous act threatening maritime navigation and global energy security, warning of severe regional repercussions from such practices, Al Jazeera reported. Saudi Arabia expressed solidarity with measures taken to protect Qatari vessels, while Bahrain called on the United Nations Security Council to take decisive action against recurring maritime attacks. The Arab League also condemned the strike, warning that targeting energy carriers endangers supply chains and coastal environments.

Broader Shipping Crisis in the Gulf Waterways

The strike on the Al Mayeda adds to more than 120 commercial vessels hit in regional waters since the United States-Israel war on Iran began in February, according to data from the International Maritime Organization and the UK Maritime Trade Operations. Iran has maintained an effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz since the conflict began, threatening destruction for unauthorized vessels. October was the worst month of the war for shipping, recording at least 29 ship strikes as maritime security deteriorates.

Unresolved Maritime Security Questions

Investigations into the exact circumstances of the attack and the identification of those responsible remain ongoing, with Doha reserving the right to take necessary measures to protect its interests. Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted the disproportionate impact of these hostilities on the Global South during the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, emphasizing threats to fuel and food availability. It remains unclear whether international maritime coalitions will alter their patrol postures in the Strait of Hormuz to deter further projectile attacks on energy carriers.

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