Qatar LNG exports curbed as force majeure at Ras Laffan

Drone strikes hit Ras Laffan LNG; QatarEnergy halts output

Two drones launched from Iran struck facilities in Mesaieed and Ras Laffan on March 2, 2026, with no casualties, according to the Qatar Ministry of Defense. One drone hit a water tank at a Mesaieed power plant and another targeted an energy facility at Ras Laffan.

Following the strikes, QatarEnergy said it halted LNG production and associated products due to the deteriorating security situation. The suspension centers on the Ras Laffan LNG facility and related operations.

The company later declared force majeure on LNG supply contracts, as reported by news/articles/qatar-declares-force-majeure-irans-134336593.html” target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow noopener”>Yahoo News. Force majeure is a standard clause that can suspend obligations when events beyond a party’s control prevent performance.

Why it matters for Qatargas, buyers, and LNG security

The disruption touches one of the world’s most critical LNG export hubs, affecting counterparties linked to Qatargas-branded supply. Any sustained outage can alter trade flows and raise counterparty and delivery risk.

Wood Mackenzie warned that with force majeure removing about 20% of global LNG supply, a prolonged disruption could threaten expected demand growth in Asia over the next decade. The firm also noted consequences could rival those following Russia’s 2022 invasion if the situation becomes structural rather than temporary.

Officials have framed the incident as a strike on civilian and commercial infrastructure and signaled a firm response. Majed al-Ansari, spokesperson for Qatar’s Foreign Ministry, said: “Iran’s strikes cannot go unanswered… a price has to be paid for this attack on our people.”

in the near term, export schedules and vessel loadings from Ras Laffan are likely to face delays while safety and integrity checks proceed. Navigation and terminal operations may be staggered, magnifying voyage and freight uncertainties.

Based on data from S&P Global Energy, Asia-Pacific buyers are most exposed to the sudden loss of key Middle East supply, with regional price volatility heightened by reliance on narrow export corridors. The duration and scope of the halt will shape knock-on effects for shipping and procurement.

QatarEnergy force majeure: what contracts and buyers should expect

What force majeure means for LNG deliveries

In LNG sale and purchase agreements, force majeure typically allows temporary suspension of delivery obligations when events beyond control prevent performance. Sellers must issue notices, mitigate impacts, and resume deliveries once impediments cease.

Potential delays and alternatives under existing contracts

Buyers should anticipate deferred cargoes, partial cancellations, or revised schedules, subject to contract terms. Alternatives may include re-optimization of liftings, swaps, or replacement volumes from other portfolios where available. Any rerouting depends on shipping availability and counterparties’ consent.

FAQ about Ras Laffan LNG

Has QatarEnergy halted LNG production at Ras Laffan and how long could the shutdown last?

Yes. The company halted LNG production after the attacks. No timeline has been provided, and duration depends on security conditions and operational assessments.

How will Qatar’s force majeure affect LNG contracts and deliveries to Asia and Europe?

Force majeure can temporarily suspend deliveries, trigger delays, or rescheduling under LNG SPAs. Asia appears most exposed near term; impacts hinge on event duration and available alternative supply.