The ongoing conflict in Gaza has left a trail of devastation with lives lost, homes destroyed and communities shattered. While the world focuses on the immediate impact of the war, there lies a deeper, less visible struggle—one that involves natural resources and geopolitical interests. Israel’s military aggression against Gaza is not merely about combating Hamas; it is intricately linked to a calculated effort to seize control of Palestinian gas reserves.
The Levant gas field lies beneath the Mediterranean Sea, stretching across the eastern Mediterranean region. It encompasses not only the coastal waters of Israel and Gaza but also extends toward Syria, Lebanon and Cyprus.
This vast underwater reservoir holds immense potential due to its estimated 122 trillion cubic feet of natural gas. To put this in perspective, it’s equivalent to a colossal energy reserve waiting to be harnessed.
The Levant gas field is strategically positioned, making it a focal point for regional energy security and economic interests. Countries in the region are eyeing this resource as a means to diversify their energy supplies, reduce dependence on external sources and boost their economies.
Located off the coast of Gaza, the Gaza Marine natural gas field is a subset of the larger Levant gas field. British Gas Exploration and Production (BGEP) confirmed its existence in 1999 after extensive exploration efforts. The estimated reserves within Gaza Marine amount to 1.1 trillion cubic feet of natural gas. The Palestinian Authority granted BGEP a 25-year contract to develop and exploit this resource with the promise of significant economic benefits for the people of Gaza.
Despite the contract, the Palestinians have yet to reap the benefits of their natural gas........