A Japanese-linked liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier has successfully transited the Strait of Hormuz, marking the first such passage by a Japan-affiliated vessel since the waterway was effectively shut by conflict in the region. The Panama-flagged Sohar LNG, co-owned by Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, completed the crossing with all crew safe, the company confirmed, declining to provide details on the timing of the transit or whether any negotiations were required.
The voyage represents a significant development after weeks of near-total disruption in one of the world’s most critical energy corridors. The Strait of Hormuz typically handles about 20% of global oil and LNG flows, but traffic collapsed following U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran in late February and Tehran’s subsequent moves to restrict shipping.
The successful passage of the Sohar LNG carrier is a positive sign for the global energy market, which has been heavily impacted by the disruption. The Strait of Hormuz plays a crucial role in supplying energy to Asia and Europe, making its reopening essential for stabilizing supply chains.
Japan, heavily dependent on Middle Eastern energy imports, has been particularly exposed. Around 90% of its crude oil imports and a portion of its LNG shipments normally pass through the strait. As of Friday, 45 Japanese-operated vessels remained stranded in the region due to the disruption, including several LNG carriers.
The Sohar LNG had been among ships waiting in the Persian Gulf before making the passage into the Gulf of Oman, according to Japanese media and company statements.
Other vessels from countries including China, India, Greece and France have also recently begun navigating the chokepoint, suggesting a cautious resumption of traffic despite ongoing security risks.
The successful passage of the Sohar LNG carrier marks a significant step towards restoring energy flows through the Strait of Hormuz. However, sustained flows are needed to fully stabilize supply chains disrupted by this maritime energy shock.
Even limited reopenings could ease pressure on global energy markets, but sustained flows are necessary to mitigate the impact of the Iran conflict on the region's energy landscape.
The resumption of LNG shipments through the Strait of Hormuz is a critical development for countries like Japan that rely heavily on Middle Eastern energy imports. As the situation in the region continues to evolve, it will be essential to monitor the progress of energy flows and their impact on global markets.
The successful passage of the Sohar LNG carrier marks a significant development in the resumption of energy flows through the Strait of Hormuz, which has been effectively shut down since the Iran conflict began.
