By Staff Reporter

DOHA — Qatar has warned that the continuing crisis around the Strait of Hormuz could trigger an “industrial catastrophe”, as sharply reduced shipping through the strategic waterway raises concerns over global energy and commodity supplies.

Qatar’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Majed Al-Ansari, said reopening the Strait of Hormuz remains a priority, warning that the disruption could have serious consequences for industries and economies around the world if the crisis persists.

Shipping through the strait has fallen to its lowest level since May, with an average of just 10 commodity vessels passing through each day over the past 10 days, according to Kpler data.

The decline follows US and Iranian strikes involving tankers, increasing security concerns along one of the world’s most important maritime routes for energy and other commodities.

The situation has also heightened tensions across the wider region. A Saudi-led coalition in Yemen said recent Houthi attacks on civilian and economic targets in Saudi Arabia had injured 73 people, including women and children.

The coalition described the attacks as a “dangerous escalation”, adding to fears that the conflict could spread further across the region.

The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical global trade route, and prolonged disruption could place further pressure on energy markets, supply chains and industries dependent on uninterrupted access to international commodities.

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