Fresh attacks on commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz have once again raised concerns about fuel prices in India. A Qatari liquefied natural gas (LNG) tanker that was heading to India was reportedly attacked near the busy shipping route, increasing worries that CNG, piped cooking gas (PNG), and industrial gas could become more expensive if the situation worsens.
The fresh tensions come as military conflict between the United States and Iran has intensified again, creating uncertainty in global energy markets.
Why is the Strait of Hormuz important for India?
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important energy routes. Nearly 20% of the world’s oil trade and a large share of LNG exports pass through this narrow waterway.
India depends heavily on imported LNG to meet its natural gas needs, with Qatar being its biggest supplier. Most LNG cargoes from Qatar pass through the Strait of Hormuz before reaching Indian ports like Dahej in Gujarat.
Reports say a Qatari LNG tanker carrying four Indian crew members was attacked near the strait. Following the incident, several oil and gas tankers reportedly turned back because of security concerns.
Oil prices jump after fresh attacks
The attacks have already affected global energy markets.
Brent crude oil prices rose by around 6%, reaching nearly $78 per barrel, while US crude oil prices also increased sharply. Investors fear that continued attacks on commercial ships could disrupt the supply of oil and gas even if the shipping route remains open.
Higher oil and gas prices globally often increase India’s import costs.
Will CNG and PNG prices increase in India?
There is no immediate price hike, but the risk has increased.
Unlike petrol and diesel, the prices of CNG and PNG depend partly on imported LNG. If LNG becomes more expensive because of higher shipping charges, insurance costs, or supply shortages, city gas companies may eventually have to pay more to buy gas.
If that happens, consumers could see higher prices for:
- CNG used in vehicles
- PNG supplied to homes for cooking
- Gas used by industries and commercial businesses
- US-Iran Tensions Add More Uncertainty
The situation has become more serious after the United States cancelled a sanctions waiver that had allowed limited Iranian oil exports.
The US government said the decision was linked to Iran’s alleged involvement in attacks on commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz. This move has added fresh uncertainty to global energy supplies and could keep oil and gas prices under pressure.
Why Qatar’s LNG supply is crucial
Qatar has been India’s largest LNG supplier for many years under long-term agreements.
Although India now imports LNG from countries such as the United States, Australia, Russia, Oman, and several African nations, Qatar remains the country’s most important source of natural gas.
If LNG shipments from Qatar are delayed or disrupted, India may have to buy gas from the global spot market, where prices are usually much higher.
What it means for Indian consumers
For now, there is no immediate increase in CNG or PNG prices.
However, if the conflict in the Strait of Hormuz continues for a long time, shipping disruptions become more frequent, or global LNG prices remain high, Indian consumers may eventually have to pay more for CNG, piped cooking gas, and industrial gas.
Read Also: ‘Frozen funds, communication channel and…’: What came out of US-Iran Doha talks?
First published on: Jul 08, 2026 07:46 PM IST
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