Daoud Rammal, "Akhbar al-Yawm" agency

Israel Advances in Gas Exploration While Lebanon Faces Delays

Source: Tel Aviv continues to strengthen its position by leveraging international partnerships to maximize its gains

As Israel accelerates its natural gas exploration, licensing, and extraction activities in the Mediterranean, Lebanon continues to await the commencement of actual drilling and exploration by its oil consortium. This raises critical questions about the delays hindering Lebanon’s progress in this strategic sector.

A source familiar with the matter told "Akhbar Al-Yawm" agency that "Israel has recently granted new exploration licenses to major international firms, including the British BP and the Azerbaijani SOCAR, alongside the local company NewMed Energy. This initiative aims to strengthen Israel’s natural gas reserves and expand its exports, particularly in response to Europe’s increasing demand for alternatives to Russian gas".

The source further explained that "this decision aligns with Israel’s broader strategy to position itself as a regional energy hub, capitalizing on the supply gaps created by Western sanctions on Moscow. In 2024, Israel’s gas exports to Egypt and Jordan increased by 13.4%, underscoring its success in leveraging offshore resources to bolster both economic and diplomatic influence. Israeli Energy Minister Eli Cohen described natural gas as a ‘strategic asset that enhances Israel’s economic and geopolitical standing, particularly in the Middle East,’ highlighting the growing role of energy as a key instrument of economic power."

In contrast, the source noted that "Lebanon is still awaiting the commencement of actual drilling operations by the oil consortium comprising TotalEnergies (France), Eni (Italy), and QatarEnergy. Despite the signing of the maritime border demarcation agreement with Israel in 2022 and the formal allocation of Block 9 within its Exclusive Economic Zone, progress has been sluggish. This delay is largely attributed to administrative bureaucracy, political instability, and technical challenges. Furthermore, the absence of a clear strategic framework for leveraging Lebanon’s gas reserves reflects broader governance weaknesses in resource management, raising concerns over the potential loss of a critical economic opportunity."

The source emphasized that "while Israel, having initiated exploration and production years ago, continues to consolidate its energy partnerships and strengthen its global market position, Lebanon remains at a standstill, significantly lagging in the regional energy race. Given the shifting geopolitical and economic landscape, time is no longer on Beirut’s side. There is an urgent need for decisive action, streamlined procedures, and a comprehensive strategy to harness Lebanon’s offshore resources before the window of opportunity closes".