An LNG carrier was attacked by a projectile in the Strait of Hormuz, raising new alarms over the security of energy transportation.

⑴ Security intelligence companies and ship tracking data indicate that a liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier was hit by a projectile while transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The vessel had loaded cargo in Qatar around July 27 and stopped transmitting signals near the western entrance of the Strait on July 31.⑵ Security consulting firms Vanguard Tech and Marisks confirmed the attack. On the same day, the UK Maritime Trade Operations office issued another warning stating that a tanker had reported an explosion in nearby waters, indicating that targeted attacks within the Strait are not isolated events, and that multiple vessels have faced security threats in a short period.⑶ An LNG carrier coming under attack in the Strait of Hormuz is highly sensitive, as around one-third of global LNG trade passes through this waterway. Qatar is one of the world's largest LNG exporters, and any strikes against such vessels will directly disrupt the stability of the energy supply chain.⑷ The vessel did not transmit signals when the attack occurred, which may suggest either the incident happened rapidly or the ship’s communications systems were damaged. The interruption in ship tracking data has further heightened market concerns over the security of transits through the Strait, and both shipping insurance rates and bypass costs are expected to rise significantly as a result.⑸ This incident, combined with previous attacks on multiple tankers and bulk carriers, means the risk of transiting the Strait of Hormuz has escalated from sporadic disturbances to a persistent threat. Ongoing attention is needed to see whether Qatar will adjust its shipping routes and whether international naval escort arrangements can effectively restore order to maritime traffic.