QatarEnergy has agreed to purchase 4 million tonnes of liquefied natural gas (LNG) annually from US exporter Cheniere Energy through 2054, highlighting how the Iran war is reshaping global gas markets and strengthening the position of American suppliers.
Under the long-term agreement, deliveries are expected to begin in the 2030s, with prices linked to the US Henry Hub benchmark plus a fixed fee.
Qatar, previously one of the world’s largest LNG exporters, has suffered a major production setback since Iranian attacks damaged two production lines at its Ras Laffan facility in March, reducing its LNG export capacity by about 17%. Repairs are expected to take around three years.
Exports have also been severely disrupted by restrictions on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for Qatar’s LNG shipments. Qatar has repeatedly declared force majeure on contracts since the attack.
The agreement suggests Doha is seeking to diversify its supply sources and strengthen its ability to meet international delivery commitments amid prolonged uncertainty over production and shipping.
