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US, Iran no closer to ending war as Qatari tanker sails toward Strait of Hormuz
The tanker could be Qatar’s first LNG export through the strait since the war began, with Iran approving a limited passage for Pakistan-bound gas.
On Saturday, the Qatari LNG tanker Al Kharaitiyat began navigating the Strait of Hormuz toward Port Qasim, Pakistan, according to tracking data.
Iran effectively closed the chokepoint about 10 weeks ago, and the Revolutionary Guards previously halted other Qatar LNG tankers, instructing them to hold position without explanation.
Managed by Nakilat Shipping Qatar Ltd and sailing under a Marshall Islands flag, the vessel has a cargo capacity of 211,986 cubic metres; the LNG is being sold to Pakistan under a government-to-government deal.
Iran agreed to coordinate the tanker's safe passage to build confidence with Qatar and Pakistan, marking the first such transit since the war began in late February.
Iran's parliament is preparing a legal framework that could formalize its control over the Strait of Hormuz, while Iranian attacks have previously knocked out 17% of Qatar's LNG export capacity.