A liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier has likely completed the first outbound voyage through the Strait of Hormuz since the onset of the Middle East conflict two months ago, offering a tentative sign of movement in a market strained by prolonged disruption.
The vessel Mubaraz, owned by a unit of Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (Adnoc), is reported to have loaded cargo at Das Island in early March before remaining idle within the Persian Gulf amid escalating tensions. Ship-tracking data indicates the tanker ceased transmitting signals around March 31 and later reappeared on April 27 west of India, now sailing past the southern tip of the country.
The tanker is currently indicating a destination in China, with an estimated arrival around May 15.
Global energy markets have been closely monitoring movements through Hormuz, a critical artery that handles roughly one-fifth of global LNG trade. Traffic through the strait has nearly collapsed over the past two months following reciprocal blockades imposed by Iran and the United States, driving a sharp surge in LNG prices.
Industry observers note that vessels often switch off transponders while navigating sensitive regions like Hormuz to avoid detection, complicating efforts to confirm voyages. Data disruptions, including signal jamming or delayed updates, further cloud visibility.
While an empty LNG tanker was tracked exiting the strait in early April, Mubaraz appears to be the first loaded vessel to successfully make the passage during the current standoff. Several LNG carriers transporting Qatari cargo had earlier approached Hormuz but turned back amid ongoing geopolitical risks.
