Why in the News
Amid the ongoing Iran–US-Israel conflict (2026), major Gulf producers like Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain have invoked force majeure on oil and gas exports due to shipping disruptions and attacks on infrastructure.
What is Force Majeure?
- Force majeure is a contractual clause that allows a party to suspend or cancel its obligations without penalty when extraordinary events make performance impossible.
- Origin: French term meaning “superior force”
- Common in international trade, energy contracts, and maritime law
Examples of Force Majeure Events
- Wars and armed conflicts
- Natural disasters (earthquakes, floods)
- Pandemics (e.g., COVID-19)
- Government actions or sanctions
| [2024] Consider the following statements: Statement-I: Sumed pipeline is a strategic route for Persian Gulf oil and natural gas shipments to Europe. Statement-II: Sumed pipeline connects the Red Sea with the Mediterranean Sea. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements? (a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II explains Statement-I (b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, but Statement-II does not explain Statement-I (c) Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect (d) Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct |
