A second Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) tanker from Qatar is currently transiting the Strait of Hormuz under a specific diplomatic and maritime arrangement involving Iran and Pakistan. This movement follows the successful passage of an initial cargo vessel just days prior, marking a continued flow of energy resources through one of the world’s most significant maritime chokepoints.
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Details of the Maritime Operation
According to shipping data provided by the London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG), the vessel named Mihzem is the latest tanker to undertake this journey. The Mihzem has a substantial carrying capacity of 174,000 cubic metres of LNG. The vessel departed from Qatar’s primary gas export terminal, Ras Laffan, and is currently en route to Port Qasim in Pakistan. Based on current tracking and speed, the tanker is scheduled to arrive at its destination tomorrow.
This transit is being conducted under a special framework established between the governments of Iran and Pakistan. This arrangement facilitates the safe passage of energy shipments through Iranian-controlled waters, specifically utilizing an authorised northern route within the Strait of Hormuz to bypass potential regional disruptions.
Sequence of Recent Transits
The current voyage of the Mihzem follows the successful transit of the LNG tanker Al Kharaitiyat. The Al Kharaitiyat was the first vessel to utilize this specific northern route under the new bilateral understanding. It commenced its crossing of the Strait of Hormuz earlier this week and successfully cleared the passage on Sunday.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical artery for global energy security, as it links the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. As Qatar is one of the world’s leading exporters of liquefied natural gas, the stability of this route is paramount for South Asian energy markets, particularly for Pakistan’s industrial and domestic power requirements.
Comparison of Recent LNG Shipments
| Vessel Name | Departure Port | Destination Port | Capacity (Cubic Metres) | Status |
| Al Kharaitiyat | Ras Laffan, Qatar | Port Qasim, Pakistan | ~147,000 | Successfully Transited |
| Mihzem | Ras Laffan, Qatar | Port Qasim, Pakistan | 174,000 | In Transit |
Strategic Context
The use of the Iranian-authorised northern route signifies a strategic coordination to maintain the supply chain between Qatar’s Ras Laffan and Pakistan’s Port Qasim. Port Qasim serves as a vital hub for Pakistan’s energy infrastructure, housing multiple LNG regasification terminals that convert the liquid cargo back into gas for the national grid.
The Mihzem, being a larger vessel than many standard carriers, represents a significant injection of supply. Monitoring by LSEG and other maritime analysts confirms that the vessel is maintaining its programmed course without incident. The continued use of this specific corridor indicates a shift in maritime logistics for Qatari exports heading towards the Pakistani coast, ensuring that contractual obligations are met despite regional maritime complexities.