Oct 19, 2026 — A tanker carrying liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Qatar is traveling north through the Red Sea, possibly speeding up delivery to European customers despite risks from Houthi rebel attacks.
The tanker loaded its cargo in Qatar in August and is now headed to Poland, according to ship-tracking data. Poland's Orlen SA has a long-term supply contract with QatarEnergy, but some shipments were canceled after drone strikes hit the Ras Laffan plant in March.
This route is unusual as European natural gas prices have reached their highest point in nearly four years. Many commercial vessels usually avoid the Red Sea, opting for a longer route around Africa’s Cape of Good Hope to reach Europe, which can add almost two weeks to the journey.
UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), an organization that connects commercial shipping and military forces, reported that an unnamed LNG tanker was approached by a small boat that fired two shots near the Yemeni port of Al Mukalla in the Gulf of Aden. The tanker’s security team responded with two shots.
UKMTO did not provide more details, but ship-tracking data indicates that this was the only LNG tanker in the region at that time, and it appears to have continued on its journey.
QatarEnergy has not responded to requests for comments.
Ongoing disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz have limited global LNG supplies for months, leading to higher prices and pushing Middle Eastern suppliers to find alternative routes.
This shipment from Qatar is heading to Europe, where the continent has struggled to replenish its gas reserves before winter. Current fuel reserves are at their lowest seasonal level in over ten years, raising concerns of even higher prices as temperatures drop.