Qatar has condemned an Iranian attack on its LNG carrier, Al Rekayyat, near the Strait of Hormuz. Foreign ministry spokesperson Majed al-Ansari called the incident an “unacceptable attack” that threatens global energy supplies and violates international law. He urged Iran to cease actions jeopardizing maritime security and regional stability.
Qatar has lifted its temporary restrictions on maritime navigation, allowing all vessels to resume normal operations. The Ministry of Transport emphasized the need for adherence to safety protocols and regulations. Operators are urged to ensure safety equipment is functional before embarking, maintaining high standards for maritime activities in Qatari waters.
On Monday, Qatar announced a temporary suspension of sailing and maritime activities due to safety concerns. This measure affects leisure and fishing boats, as well as jet skis. The decision follows a tragic incident involving a Qatari national killed by shrapnel linked to military operations, raising maritime safety concerns.
The Maritime Search and Rescue Team located the vessel early on Sunday, June 28. Tragically, a Qatari citizen died from shrapnel injuries related to military operations, while an Arab resident was hospitalized in stable condition. The Ministry of Interior expressed condolences and confirmed ongoing investigations into the incident.
Qatar has officially resumed maritime navigation for all vessel types, marking a significant step towards normalizing operations in its waters. Effective April 12, 2026, vessels will operate daily from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. This move enhances accessibility and supports the country’s commitment to restoring full maritime activities.
In Doha, Qatar, the Maritime Transport Affairs of the Ministry of Transport urges licensed maritime entities to ensure fairness and transparency in service delivery. They warn against imposing additional charges amid extraordinary circumstances, emphasizing compliance with maritime regulations. Integrity and accountability are vital for maintaining consumer trust in maritime services.
An oil tanker leased by QatarEnergy was hit by an Iranian cruise missile in Qatari waters, marking a significant escalation in regional tensions. Of three missiles launched, two were intercepted, but the third struck the tanker, Aqua 1. Fortunately, there were no casualties, and environmental impact was minimal.
U.S. and Australian LNG producers are grappling with supply challenges following Qatar’s production suspension due to regional tensions. Qatar, a key player supplying 20% of global LNG, has declared force majeure, impacting tanker shipments. While U.S. producers like Venture Global explore flexibility, existing contracts limit quick adjustments to meet rising demand.
On Saturday, Qatar’s Ministry of Transport announced a temporary halt to maritime traffic as a safety precaution due to regional developments. This measure aims to protect maritime operations, urging vessel owners and companies to comply. The ministry is coordinating with authorities to monitor the situation and ensure public safety.
The Ministry of Transport in Doha has mandated a halt to all maritime navigation and leasing activities from December 16 to 19, 2025, to ensure public safety during Qatar National Day celebrations. This directive affects various vessels, emphasizing collective responsibility for a secure environment during the festivities.
Norwegian technology firm Vissim has secured a contract with a Qatar-based oil and gas operator to implement a vessel collision avoidance system at an undisclosed offshore oil field. This three-year agreement will enhance maritime safety and operational efficiency by providing a user-friendly overview of vessel traffic through advanced software integration.
The State of Qatar, led by Minister H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulla bin Mohammed Al-Thani, participated in the 34th IMO Assembly in London. The Minister highlighted Qatar’s commitment to maritime safety, environmental protection, and training initiatives, including a new Maritime Training Center, emphasizing the nation’s strategic focus on its maritime industry.
In London, Tanzania and Qatar signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on November 24, 2025, to mutually recognize seafarers’ certificates. This agreement, signed by officials from both nations during the International Maritime Organization Assembly, aims to enhance safety, competency standards, and employment opportunities for Tanzanian seafarers in Qatar.
The Ministry of Transport in Doha, Qatar, has announced the full resumption of maritime navigation activities, including pleasure crafts, tourism, and fishing. Emphasizing safety, the ministry urged vessel owners to ensure all navigation equipment is functioning properly. This follows a temporary halt due to GPS technical issues earlier this month.
Doha has recently eased its maritime blackout, initially enforced on October 4 due to GPS disruptions. Qatar’s Ministry of Transport now allows daytime navigation, though nighttime restrictions persist for smaller vessels. This decision comes amid ongoing GPS jamming concerns, with reports of interference in the Arabian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz.
