QatarEnergy Declares Force Majeure After Ras Laffan Attack Disrupts LNG Supply

QatarEnergy

QatarEnergy has declared force majeure on several long‑term liquefied natural gas (LNG) contracts following missile strikes on Ras Laffan on March 18-19, 2026.

The attacks caused significant damage to LNG Trains 4 and 6, with a combined production capacity of 12.8 million tons per annum, representing about 17% of Qatar’s total LNG exports. A gas‑to‑liquids facility was also affected, disrupting supply commitments to Italy, Belgium, South Korea, and China.

In an earlier statement, HE Saad Sherida Al‑Kaabi, Minister of State for Energy Affairs and President & CEO of QatarEnergy, explained that repairs to the damaged facilities could take three to five years, with force majeure remaining in effect on certain contracts for up to five years as a result.

The declaration provides legal protection for QatarEnergy to suspend contractual obligations due to unforeseen and uncontrollable events. Production of LNG and downstream products, including urea, polymers, methanol, and aluminum, has also been halted.

Authorities are assessing damages and working to restore operations while maintaining communication with global partners to manage supply challenges and ensure market stability.