Israel seeks energy solutions through resource extraction in Gaza and West Bank

Israel is facing a potential energy crisis as its major gas reserves, including the Tamar and Leviathan fields operated by Chevron, are projected to be depleted within 20 years, according to a report from the Israeli Energy Ministry.

In response, Israel is looking to extract resources from areas beyond its sovereign borders. The Gaza Marine Field, located approximately 35-36 km off the Gaza Strip coast in Palestinian territorial waters, has proven and estimated recoverable natural gas reserves of around 1 trillion cubic feet. This resource could meet the energy needs of Gaza and the West Bank for decades, with an estimated value between $4 billion and $15 billion. However, Israel has historically blocked Palestinian development of these resources, citing security concerns. Following its recent military actions in Gaza, Israel has granted exploration licenses to several Israeli and Western multinational energy companies, including BP, Chevron, Dana Petroleum, and ENI.

In the occupied West Bank, the Meged Oil & Gas Field straddles the Green Line and extends into Area C, which is under full Israeli control. Palestinians claim that 80% of the oil lies beneath their land, yet they do not receive any revenue from it. Additionally, the Hatrurim license, issued in 2014, covers an area near the Dead Sea and was awarded to a consortium of Israeli companies, despite attempts by the Palestinian Authority to bid for exploration rights.

In the Golan Heights, which Israel has occupied since the 1960s, drilling licenses have been granted to companies like Genie Energy. International law prohibits the exploitation of resources in occupied territories for the benefit of the occupier. Furthermore, the Qana Field Extension, located in a disputed maritime zone claimed by both Lebanon and Israel, was addressed in a 2022 US-mediated agreement that granted Lebanon sovereignty while allowing Israel a share of profits.