US-Israel alliance with Iran could lead to MRI scan delays nationwide

US-Israel Conflict Disrupts Global Helium Supplies

A conflict between the United States and Israel in Iran has resulted in disruptions to global helium supplies. The war on Iran has affected about one-third of the world’s helium production, which is essential for medical uses such as MRI scans and high-tech industries like semiconductors.

Qatar, a major producer of helium, has suspended its production due to shipping restrictions. In 2025, Qatar produced approximately 63 million cubic meters of helium, accounting for about one-third of the global total. The country’s exports rely heavily on shipping lanes through the Strait of Hormuz, which has been significantly reduced since Iranian officials announced that the strait was “closed” to vessels from certain countries.

Iranian officials claim that the strait is not completely closed, but new regulations require all ships to secure approval from Tehran before transiting. This has led to a significant reduction in shipping traffic through the strait, resulting in a 14% decrease in Qatar’s annual helium exports.

Helium is typically cooled and stored in specialized containers due to its low density and tendency to boil off over time. The global demand for helium is high, particularly from countries like South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, and China. As a result of the disruptions, some industries may experience shortages or delays.

QatarEnergy, the world’s largest LNG producer, has also announced a 14% decrease in its annual helium exports due to reduced production capacity. The company cited attacks on its energy infrastructure as the reason for the reduction. Repairs are expected to sideline 12.8 million tonnes of LNG production per year for three to five years, resulting in an estimated $20 billion in lost revenue over the next five years.

The impact of the conflict on global helium supplies is being closely monitored by industry experts and analysts.

Source: Al Jazeera