Israel’s Offshore Gas Plans in Gaza Waters Draw Condemnation

In February 2025, Energy Minister Eli Cohen approved Israel's fifth offshore gas licensing round in the Mediterranean, according to a statement from the country'sÂMinistry of Energy and Infrastructure. The plan would allow energy companies to explore approximately 8,600 square kilometers of sea, divided into six search zones.[1]Adalah, a Haifa-based legal center focused on Palestinian rights, said two of the six zones fall within recognized Palestinian maritime territory off Gaza. The group stated that Israel's previous offshore licensing round had also encroached on Palestinian waters.Adalah sent a letter to Cohen and Israel's Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara arguing that the new licensing round is illegal because about 1,000 square kilometers of the designated area lies in waters claimed by the State of Palestine. The group urged the government to halt the exploration plans.[1]Legal Challenges and ObjectionsAdalah's letter, shared withMiddle East Eye, stated that Israel "has no authority to operate" in Palestinian maritime areas, adding that exploration there would breach both Israeli and international law. The group argued that Israel could not use "its ongoing illegal occupation as justification for denying the sovereign rights of the State of Palestine and the Palestinian people."According to Adalah, the offshore drilling plans violate the Oslo Accords signed with the Palestinian Authority in 1993, which granted the PA control over its territorial waters.[1][2]ÂSuhad Bishara, Adalah's legal director, said the offshore drilling plans "cannot be separated from the broader accelerated Israeli policy aimed at establishing annexation and control over Palestinian land and resources."In a public statement, Bishara described the plan as not merely a violation of international law, "but an attempt to establish permanent control over Palestinian land and resources" in a way that undermines the Palestinian right to self-determination. The group also noted that allowing further exploration in Palestinian waters would breach international humanitarian law, which prohibits occupying powers from exploiting natural resources under occupation.[1]Environmental and Energy ConcernsYuval Arbel of the Zalul Environmental Association, an Israeli group focused on protecting seas and water resources, said Israel already has enough gas to meet its energy needs. "There is no need to increase gas production. Instead, there should be a transition to renewable energy," Arbel toldMiddle East Eye.He warned that offshore drilling poses serious risks to marine ecosystems and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Arbel added that the energy ministry operates on the assumption that renewable energy alone will not meet future demand, but added that the ministry is also motivated by profit.[1]"If gas is extracted from these sites, it will only happen in another six to 10 years," Arbel said. "Who knows whether there will still be demand for gas in 10 or 15 years." He accused the ministry of seeking to "maximise profits."In 2024, the energy ministry reported "record revenues" from gas production, with the state receiving 2.3 billion Israeli shekels ($640 million) in royalties, an increase of more than eight percent compared with the previous year.[1]Among international firms operating Israeli gas rigs are U.K.-based Energean and U.S. energy giant Chevron, while British Petroleum and Azerbaijan's state-owned SOCAR won bids in a previous licensing round.[1]Broader Context of Occupation and SettlementsAccording to Adalah, Israel has prevented the Palestinian Authority (PA) from accessing gas reserves in the Gaza Marine field since the early 2000s. The field, which experts estimate contains up to 30 billion cubic meters of gas, could generate up to $4 billion for the PA.Israel exports billions of dollars worth of gas to Egypt through the Ashkelon-Arish pipeline, which passes through Palestinian maritime territory without Palestinian consent.[1]The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) reported in 2019 that Israeli occupation has prevented Palestinians from developing their energy fields in the Levant Basin.[3]Meanwhile, Cohen has pushed policies aimed at consolidating Israeli control over occupied Palestinian territory. Last week, he announced plans to expand natural gas infrastructure in the occupied West Bank, stating "We are applying sovereignty in practice."He toldChannel 14 Newsthat his ministry was planning new power plants and gas pipelines across the West Bank, describing the move as "the economic key on the path to one million" settlers.[1]The U.S., Israel, and the UAE have also discussed using profits from Gaza's offshore gas to fund reconstruction, according to sources cited by Middle East Eye.[4]Conclusion: Unresolved Dispute Over Resource ControlThe dispute over offshore gas exploration highlights ongoing tensions between Israeli policy and international law regarding natural resources under occupation. Adalah has argued that continued exploration undermines the Palestinian right to self-determination.The energy ministry has not released the results of the licensing round since the tender was announced, and no resolution has been reached.[1]The broader implications extend beyond legal arguments, as energy infrastructure expansion in the West Bank and Gaza waters signals a deepening Israeli economic footprint in Palestinian territory.ReferencesNadav Rapaport. "Israel's Gaza offshore gas plans condemned as illegal resource grab." Middle East Eye. May 28, 2026."Gaza unsilenced." (Book)Dan Steinbock. "Whitewashing the Gaza Gas Exploration." Antiwar.com. October 31, 2025.Sean Mathews. "US, Israel and UAE discussed using Gaza gas to fund reconstruction, sources say." Middle East Eye. December 18, 2025.Elizabeth Riddell-Dixon. "Breaking the ice: Canada sovereignty and the Arctic extended continental shelf."Explainer InfographicEditorial Cartoon

In February 2025, Energy Minister Eli Cohen approved Israel's fifth offshore gas licensing round in the Mediterranean, according to a statement from the country'sÂMinistry of Energy and Infrastructure. The plan would allow energy companies to explore approximately 8,600 square kilometers of sea, divided into six search zones.[1]Adalah, a Haifa-based legal center focused on Palestinian rights, said two of the six zones fall within recognized Palestinian maritime territory off Gaza. The group stated that Israel's previous offshore licensing round had also encroached on Palestinian waters.Adalah sent a letter to Cohen and Israel's Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara arguing that the new licensing round is illegal because about 1,000 square kilometers of the designated area lies in waters claimed by the State of Palestine. The group urged the government to halt the exploration plans.[1]Legal Challenges and ObjectionsAdalah's letter, shared withMiddle East Eye, stated that Israel "has no authority to operate" in Palestinian maritime areas, adding that exploration there would breach both Israeli and international law. The group argued that Israel could not use "its ongoing illegal occupation as justification for denying the sovereign rights of the State of Palestine and the Palestinian people."According to Adalah, the offshore drilling plans violate the Oslo Accords signed with the Palestinian Authority in 1993, which granted the PA control over its territorial waters.[1][2]ÂSuhad Bishara, Adalah's legal director, said the offshore drilling plans "cannot be separated from the broader accelerated Israeli policy aimed at establishing annexation and control over Palestinian land and resources."In a public statement, Bishara described the plan as not merely a violation of international law, "but an attempt to establish permanent control over Palestinian land and resources" in a way that undermines the Palestinian right to self-determination. The group also noted that allowing further exploration in Palestinian waters would breach international humanitarian law, which prohibits occupying powers from exploiting natural resources under occupation.[1]Environmental and Energy ConcernsYuval Arbel of the Zalul Environmental Association, an Israeli group focused on protecting seas and water resources, said Israel already has enough gas to meet its energy needs. "There is no need to increase gas production. Instead, there should be a transition to renewable energy," Arbel toldMiddle East Eye.He warned that offshore drilling poses serious risks to marine ecosystems and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Arbel added that the energy ministry operates on the assumption that renewable energy alone will not meet future demand, but added that the ministry is also motivated by profit.[1]"If gas is extracted from these sites, it will only happen in another six to 10 years," Arbel said. "Who knows whether there will still be demand for gas in 10 or 15 years." He accused the ministry of seeking to "maximise profits."In 2024, the energy ministry reported "record revenues" from gas production, with the state receiving 2.3 billion Israeli shekels ($640 million) in royalties, an increase of more than eight percent compared with the previous year.[1]Among international firms operating Israeli gas rigs are U.K.-based Energean and U.S. energy giant Chevron, while British Petroleum and Azerbaijan's state-owned SOCAR won bids in a previous licensing round.[1]Broader Context of Occupation and SettlementsAccording to Adalah, Israel has prevented the Palestinian Authority (PA) from accessing gas reserves in the Gaza Marine field since the early 2000s. The field, which experts estimate contains up to 30 billion cubic meters of gas, could generate up to $4 billion for the PA.Israel exports billions of dollars worth of gas to Egypt through the Ashkelon-Arish pipeline, which passes through Palestinian maritime territory without Palestinian consent.[1]The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) reported in 2019 that Israeli occupation has prevented Palestinians from developing their energy fields in the Levant Basin.[3]Meanwhile, Cohen has pushed policies aimed at consolidating Israeli control over occupied Palestinian territory. Last week, he announced plans to expand natural gas infrastructure in the occupied West Bank, stating "We are applying sovereignty in practice."He toldChannel 14 Newsthat his ministry was planning new power plants and gas pipelines across the West Bank, describing the move as "the economic key on the path to one million" settlers.[1]The U.S., Israel, and the UAE have also discussed using profits from Gaza's offshore gas to fund reconstruction, according to sources cited by Middle East Eye.[4]Conclusion: Unresolved Dispute Over Resource ControlThe dispute over offshore gas exploration highlights ongoing tensions between Israeli policy and international law regarding natural resources under occupation. Adalah has argued that continued exploration undermines the Palestinian right to self-determination.The energy ministry has not released the results of the licensing round since the tender was announced, and no resolution has been reached.[1]The broader implications extend beyond legal arguments, as energy infrastructure expansion in the West Bank and Gaza waters signals a deepening Israeli economic footprint in Palestinian territory.ReferencesNadav Rapaport. "Israel's Gaza offshore gas plans condemned as illegal resource grab." Middle East Eye. May 28, 2026."Gaza unsilenced." (Book)Dan Steinbock. "Whitewashing the Gaza Gas Exploration." Antiwar.com. October 31, 2025.Sean Mathews. "US, Israel and UAE discussed using Gaza gas to fund reconstruction, sources say." Middle East Eye. December 18, 2025.Elizabeth Riddell-Dixon. "Breaking the ice: Canada sovereignty and the Arctic extended continental shelf."Explainer InfographicEditorial Cartoon

Adalah, a Haifa-based legal center focused on Palestinian rights, said two of the six zones fall within recognized Palestinian maritime territory off Gaza. The group stated that Israel's previous offshore licensing round had also encroached on Palestinian waters.Adalah sent a letter to Cohen and Israel's Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara arguing that the new licensing round is illegal because about 1,000 square kilometers of the designated area lies in waters claimed by the State of Palestine. The group urged the government to halt the exploration plans.[1]Legal Challenges and ObjectionsAdalah's letter, shared withMiddle East Eye, stated that Israel "has no authority to operate" in Palestinian maritime areas, adding that exploration there would breach both Israeli and international law. The group argued that Israel could not use "its ongoing illegal occupation as justification for denying the sovereign rights of the State of Palestine and the Palestinian people."According to Adalah, the offshore drilling plans violate the Oslo Accords signed with the Palestinian Authority in 1993, which granted the PA control over its territorial waters.[1][2]ÂSuhad Bishara, Adalah's legal director, said the offshore drilling plans "cannot be separated from the broader accelerated Israeli policy aimed at establishing annexation and control over Palestinian land and resources."In a public statement, Bishara described the plan as not merely a violation of international law, "but an attempt to establish permanent control over Palestinian land and resources" in a way that undermines the Palestinian right to self-determination. The group also noted that allowing further exploration in Palestinian waters would breach international humanitarian law, which prohibits occupying powers from exploiting natural resources under occupation.[1]Environmental and Energy ConcernsYuval Arbel of the Zalul Environmental Association, an Israeli group focused on protecting seas and water resources, said Israel already has enough gas to meet its energy needs. "There is no need to increase gas production. Instead, there should be a transition to renewable energy," Arbel toldMiddle East Eye.He warned that offshore drilling poses serious risks to marine ecosystems and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Arbel added that the energy ministry operates on the assumption that renewable energy alone will not meet future demand, but added that the ministry is also motivated by profit.[1]"If gas is extracted from these sites, it will only happen in another six to 10 years," Arbel said. "Who knows whether there will still be demand for gas in 10 or 15 years." He accused the ministry of seeking to "maximise profits."In 2024, the energy ministry reported "record revenues" from gas production, with the state receiving 2.3 billion Israeli shekels ($640 million) in royalties, an increase of more than eight percent compared with the previous year.[1]Among international firms operating Israeli gas rigs are U.K.-based Energean and U.S. energy giant Chevron, while British Petroleum and Azerbaijan's state-owned SOCAR won bids in a previous licensing round.[1]Broader Context of Occupation and SettlementsAccording to Adalah, Israel has prevented the Palestinian Authority (PA) from accessing gas reserves in the Gaza Marine field since the early 2000s. The field, which experts estimate contains up to 30 billion cubic meters of gas, could generate up to $4 billion for the PA.Israel exports billions of dollars worth of gas to Egypt through the Ashkelon-Arish pipeline, which passes through Palestinian maritime territory without Palestinian consent.[1]The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) reported in 2019 that Israeli occupation has prevented Palestinians from developing their energy fields in the Levant Basin.[3]Meanwhile, Cohen has pushed policies aimed at consolidating Israeli control over occupied Palestinian territory. Last week, he announced plans to expand natural gas infrastructure in the occupied West Bank, stating "We are applying sovereignty in practice."He toldChannel 14 Newsthat his ministry was planning new power plants and gas pipelines across the West Bank, describing the move as "the economic key on the path to one million" settlers.[1]The U.S., Israel, and the UAE have also discussed using profits from Gaza's offshore gas to fund reconstruction, according to sources cited by Middle East Eye.[4]Conclusion: Unresolved Dispute Over Resource ControlThe dispute over offshore gas exploration highlights ongoing tensions between Israeli policy and international law regarding natural resources under occupation. Adalah has argued that continued exploration undermines the Palestinian right to self-determination.The energy ministry has not released the results of the licensing round since the tender was announced, and no resolution has been reached.[1]The broader implications extend beyond legal arguments, as energy infrastructure expansion in the West Bank and Gaza waters signals a deepening Israeli economic footprint in Palestinian territory.ReferencesNadav Rapaport. "Israel's Gaza offshore gas plans condemned as illegal resource grab." Middle East Eye. May 28, 2026."Gaza unsilenced." (Book)Dan Steinbock. "Whitewashing the Gaza Gas Exploration." Antiwar.com. October 31, 2025.Sean Mathews. "US, Israel and UAE discussed using Gaza gas to fund reconstruction, sources say." Middle East Eye. December 18, 2025.Elizabeth Riddell-Dixon. "Breaking the ice: Canada sovereignty and the Arctic extended continental shelf."Explainer InfographicEditorial Cartoon

Adalah, a Haifa-based legal center focused on Palestinian rights, said two of the six zones fall within recognized Palestinian maritime territory off Gaza. The group stated that Israel's previous offshore licensing round had also encroached on Palestinian waters.Adalah sent a letter to Cohen and Israel's Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara arguing that the new licensing round is illegal because about 1,000 square kilometers of the designated area lies in waters claimed by the State of Palestine. The group urged the government to halt the exploration plans.[1]Legal Challenges and ObjectionsAdalah's letter, shared withMiddle East Eye, stated that Israel "has no authority to operate" in Palestinian maritime areas, adding that exploration there would breach both Israeli and international law. The group argued that Israel could not use "its ongoing illegal occupation as justification for denying the sovereign rights of the State of Palestine and the Palestinian people."According to Adalah, the offshore drilling plans violate the Oslo Accords signed with the Palestinian Authority in 1993, which granted the PA control over its territorial waters.[1][2]ÂSuhad Bishara, Adalah's legal director, said the offshore drilling plans "cannot be separated from the broader accelerated Israeli policy aimed at establishing annexation and control over Palestinian land and resources."In a public statement, Bishara described the plan as not merely a violation of international law, "but an attempt to establish permanent control over Palestinian land and resources" in a way that undermines the Palestinian right to self-determination. The group also noted that allowing further exploration in Palestinian waters would breach international humanitarian law, which prohibits occupying powers from exploiting natural resources under occupation.[1]Environmental and Energy ConcernsYuval Arbel of the Zalul Environmental Association, an Israeli group focused on protecting seas and water resources, said Israel already has enough gas to meet its energy needs. "There is no need to increase gas production. Instead, there should be a transition to renewable energy," Arbel toldMiddle East Eye.He warned that offshore drilling poses serious risks to marine ecosystems and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Arbel added that the energy ministry operates on the assumption that renewable energy alone will not meet future demand, but added that the ministry is also motivated by profit.[1]"If gas is extracted from these sites, it will only happen in another six to 10 years," Arbel said. "Who knows whether there will still be demand for gas in 10 or 15 years." He accused the ministry of seeking to "maximise profits."In 2024, the energy ministry reported "record revenues" from gas production, with the state receiving 2.3 billion Israeli shekels ($640 million) in royalties, an increase of more than eight percent compared with the previous year.[1]Among international firms operating Israeli gas rigs are U.K.-based Energean and U.S. energy giant Chevron, while British Petroleum and Azerbaijan's state-owned SOCAR won bids in a previous licensing round.[1]Broader Context of Occupation and SettlementsAccording to Adalah, Israel has prevented the Palestinian Authority (PA) from accessing gas reserves in the Gaza Marine field since the early 2000s. The field, which experts estimate contains up to 30 billion cubic meters of gas, could generate up to $4 billion for the PA.Israel exports billions of dollars worth of gas to Egypt through the Ashkelon-Arish pipeline, which passes through Palestinian maritime territory without Palestinian consent.[1]The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) reported in 2019 that Israeli occupation has prevented Palestinians from developing their energy fields in the Levant Basin.[3]Meanwhile, Cohen has pushed policies aimed at consolidating Israeli control over occupied Palestinian territory. Last week, he announced plans to expand natural gas infrastructure in the occupied West Bank, stating "We are applying sovereignty in practice."He toldChannel 14 Newsthat his ministry was planning new power plants and gas pipelines across the West Bank, describing the move as "the economic key on the path to one million" settlers.[1]The U.S., Israel, and the UAE have also discussed using profits from Gaza's offshore gas to fund reconstruction, according to sources cited by Middle East Eye.[4]Conclusion: Unresolved Dispute Over Resource ControlThe dispute over offshore gas exploration highlights ongoing tensions between Israeli policy and international law regarding natural resources under occupation. Adalah has argued that continued exploration undermines the Palestinian right to self-determination.The energy ministry has not released the results of the licensing round since the tender was announced, and no resolution has been reached.[1]The broader implications extend beyond legal arguments, as energy infrastructure expansion in the West Bank and Gaza waters signals a deepening Israeli economic footprint in Palestinian territory.ReferencesNadav Rapaport. "Israel's Gaza offshore gas plans condemned as illegal resource grab." Middle East Eye. May 28, 2026."Gaza unsilenced." (Book)Dan Steinbock. "Whitewashing the Gaza Gas Exploration." Antiwar.com. October 31, 2025.Sean Mathews. "US, Israel and UAE discussed using Gaza gas to fund reconstruction, sources say." Middle East Eye. December 18, 2025.Elizabeth Riddell-Dixon. "Breaking the ice: Canada sovereignty and the Arctic extended continental shelf."Explainer InfographicEditorial Cartoon

Adalah sent a letter to Cohen and Israel's Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara arguing that the new licensing round is illegal because about 1,000 square kilometers of the designated area lies in waters claimed by the State of Palestine. The group urged the government to halt the exploration plans.[1]Legal Challenges and ObjectionsAdalah's letter, shared withMiddle East Eye, stated that Israel "has no authority to operate" in Palestinian maritime areas, adding that exploration there would breach both Israeli and international law. The group argued that Israel could not use "its ongoing illegal occupation as justification for denying the sovereign rights of the State of Palestine and the Palestinian people."According to Adalah, the offshore drilling plans violate the Oslo Accords signed with the Palestinian Authority in 1993, which granted the PA control over its territorial waters.[1][2]ÂSuhad Bishara, Adalah's legal director, said the offshore drilling plans "cannot be separated from the broader accelerated Israeli policy aimed at establishing annexation and control over Palestinian land and resources."In a public statement, Bishara described the plan as not merely a violation of international law, "but an attempt to establish permanent control over Palestinian land and resources" in a way that undermines the Palestinian right to self-determination. The group also noted that allowing further exploration in Palestinian waters would breach international humanitarian law, which prohibits occupying powers from exploiting natural resources under occupation.[1]Environmental and Energy ConcernsYuval Arbel of the Zalul Environmental Association, an Israeli group focused on protecting seas and water resources, said Israel already has enough gas to meet its energy needs. "There is no need to increase gas production. Instead, there should be a transition to renewable energy," Arbel toldMiddle East Eye.He warned that offshore drilling poses serious risks to marine ecosystems and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Arbel added that the energy ministry operates on the assumption that renewable energy alone will not meet future demand, but added that the ministry is also motivated by profit.[1]"If gas is extracted from these sites, it will only happen in another six to 10 years," Arbel said. "Who knows whether there will still be demand for gas in 10 or 15 years." He accused the ministry of seeking to "maximise profits."In 2024, the energy ministry reported "record revenues" from gas production, with the state receiving 2.3 billion Israeli shekels ($640 million) in royalties, an increase of more than eight percent compared with the previous year.[1]Among international firms operating Israeli gas rigs are U.K.-based Energean and U.S. energy giant Chevron, while British Petroleum and Azerbaijan's state-owned SOCAR won bids in a previous licensing round.[1]Broader Context of Occupation and SettlementsAccording to Adalah, Israel has prevented the Palestinian Authority (PA) from accessing gas reserves in the Gaza Marine field since the early 2000s. The field, which experts estimate contains up to 30 billion cubic meters of gas, could generate up to $4 billion for the PA.Israel exports billions of dollars worth of gas to Egypt through the Ashkelon-Arish pipeline, which passes through Palestinian maritime territory without Palestinian consent.[1]The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) reported in 2019 that Israeli occupation has prevented Palestinians from developing their energy fields in the Levant Basin.[3]Meanwhile, Cohen has pushed policies aimed at consolidating Israeli control over occupied Palestinian territory. Last week, he announced plans to expand natural gas infrastructure in the occupied West Bank, stating "We are applying sovereignty in practice."He toldChannel 14 Newsthat his ministry was planning new power plants and gas pipelines across the West Bank, describing the move as "the economic key on the path to one million" settlers.[1]The U.S., Israel, and the UAE have also discussed using profits from Gaza's offshore gas to fund reconstruction, according to sources cited by Middle East Eye.[4]Conclusion: Unresolved Dispute Over Resource ControlThe dispute over offshore gas exploration highlights ongoing tensions between Israeli policy and international law regarding natural resources under occupation. Adalah has argued that continued exploration undermines the Palestinian right to self-determination.The energy ministry has not released the results of the licensing round since the tender was announced, and no resolution has been reached.[1]The broader implications extend beyond legal arguments, as energy infrastructure expansion in the West Bank and Gaza waters signals a deepening Israeli economic footprint in Palestinian territory.ReferencesNadav Rapaport. "Israel's Gaza offshore gas plans condemned as illegal resource grab." Middle East Eye. May 28, 2026."Gaza unsilenced." (Book)Dan Steinbock. "Whitewashing the Gaza Gas Exploration." Antiwar.com. October 31, 2025.Sean Mathews. "US, Israel and UAE discussed using Gaza gas to fund reconstruction, sources say." Middle East Eye. December 18, 2025.Elizabeth Riddell-Dixon. "Breaking the ice: Canada sovereignty and the Arctic extended continental shelf."Explainer InfographicEditorial Cartoon

Adalah sent a letter to Cohen and Israel's Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara arguing that the new licensing round is illegal because about 1,000 square kilometers of the designated area lies in waters claimed by the State of Palestine. The group urged the government to halt the exploration plans.[1]Legal Challenges and ObjectionsAdalah's letter, shared withMiddle East Eye, stated that Israel "has no authority to operate" in Palestinian maritime areas, adding that exploration there would breach both Israeli and international law. The group argued that Israel could not use "its ongoing illegal occupation as justification for denying the sovereign rights of the State of Palestine and the Palestinian people."According to Adalah, the offshore drilling plans violate the Oslo Accords signed with the Palestinian Authority in 1993, which granted the PA control over its territorial waters.[1][2]ÂSuhad Bishara, Adalah's legal director, said the offshore drilling plans "cannot be separated from the broader accelerated Israeli policy aimed at establishing annexation and control over Palestinian land and resources."In a public statement, Bishara described the plan as not merely a violation of international law, "but an attempt to establish permanent control over Palestinian land and resources" in a way that undermines the Palestinian right to self-determination. The group also noted that allowing further exploration in Palestinian waters would breach international humanitarian law, which prohibits occupying powers from exploiting natural resources under occupation.[1]Environmental and Energy ConcernsYuval Arbel of the Zalul Environmental Association, an Israeli group focused on protecting seas and water resources, said Israel already has enough gas to meet its energy needs. "There is no need to increase gas production. Instead, there should be a transition to renewable energy," Arbel toldMiddle East Eye.He warned that offshore drilling poses serious risks to marine ecosystems and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Arbel added that the energy ministry operates on the assumption that renewable energy alone will not meet future demand, but added that the ministry is also motivated by profit.[1]"If gas is extracted from these sites, it will only happen in another six to 10 years," Arbel said. "Who knows whether there will still be demand for gas in 10 or 15 years." He accused the ministry of seeking to "maximise profits."In 2024, the energy ministry reported "record revenues" from gas production, with the state receiving 2.3 billion Israeli shekels ($640 million) in royalties, an increase of more than eight percent compared with the previous year.[1]Among international firms operating Israeli gas rigs are U.K.-based Energean and U.S. energy giant Chevron, while British Petroleum and Azerbaijan's state-owned SOCAR won bids in a previous licensing round.[1]Broader Context of Occupation and SettlementsAccording to Adalah, Israel has prevented the Palestinian Authority (PA) from accessing gas reserves in the Gaza Marine field since the early 2000s. The field, which experts estimate contains up to 30 billion cubic meters of gas, could generate up to $4 billion for the PA.Israel exports billions of dollars worth of gas to Egypt through the Ashkelon-Arish pipeline, which passes through Palestinian maritime territory without Palestinian consent.[1]The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) reported in 2019 that Israeli occupation has prevented Palestinians from developing their energy fields in the Levant Basin.[3]Meanwhile, Cohen has pushed policies aimed at consolidating Israeli control over occupied Palestinian territory. Last week, he announced plans to expand natural gas infrastructure in the occupied West Bank, stating "We are applying sovereignty in practice."He toldChannel 14 Newsthat his ministry was planning new power plants and gas pipelines across the West Bank, describing the move as "the economic key on the path to one million" settlers.[1]The U.S., Israel, and the UAE have also discussed using profits from Gaza's offshore gas to fund reconstruction, according to sources cited by Middle East Eye.[4]Conclusion: Unresolved Dispute Over Resource ControlThe dispute over offshore gas exploration highlights ongoing tensions between Israeli policy and international law regarding natural resources under occupation. Adalah has argued that continued exploration undermines the Palestinian right to self-determination.The energy ministry has not released the results of the licensing round since the tender was announced, and no resolution has been reached.[1]The broader implications extend beyond legal arguments, as energy infrastructure expansion in the West Bank and Gaza waters signals a deepening Israeli economic footprint in Palestinian territory.ReferencesNadav Rapaport. "Israel's Gaza offshore gas plans condemned as illegal resource grab." Middle East Eye. May 28, 2026."Gaza unsilenced." (Book)Dan Steinbock. "Whitewashing the Gaza Gas Exploration." Antiwar.com. October 31, 2025.Sean Mathews. "US, Israel and UAE discussed using Gaza gas to fund reconstruction, sources say." Middle East Eye. December 18, 2025.Elizabeth Riddell-Dixon. "Breaking the ice: Canada sovereignty and the Arctic extended continental shelf."Explainer InfographicEditorial Cartoon

Legal Challenges and ObjectionsAdalah's letter, shared withMiddle East Eye, stated that Israel "has no authority to operate" in Palestinian maritime areas, adding that exploration there would breach both Israeli and international law. The group argued that Israel could not use "its ongoing illegal occupation as justification for denying the sovereign rights of the State of Palestine and the Palestinian people."According to Adalah, the offshore drilling plans violate the Oslo Accords signed with the Palestinian Authority in 1993, which granted the PA control over its territorial waters.[1][2]ÂSuhad Bishara, Adalah's legal director, said the offshore drilling plans "cannot be separated from the broader accelerated Israeli policy aimed at establishing annexation and control over Palestinian land and resources."In a public statement, Bishara described the plan as not merely a violation of international law, "but an attempt to establish permanent control over Palestinian land and resources" in a way that undermines the Palestinian right to self-determination. The group also noted that allowing further exploration in Palestinian waters would breach international humanitarian law, which prohibits occupying powers from exploiting natural resources under occupation.[1]Environmental and Energy ConcernsYuval Arbel of the Zalul Environmental Association, an Israeli group focused on protecting seas and water resources, said Israel already has enough gas to meet its energy needs. "There is no need to increase gas production. Instead, there should be a transition to renewable energy," Arbel toldMiddle East Eye.He warned that offshore drilling poses serious risks to marine ecosystems and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Arbel added that the energy ministry operates on the assumption that renewable energy alone will not meet future demand, but added that the ministry is also motivated by profit.[1]"If gas is extracted from these sites, it will only happen in another six to 10 years," Arbel said. "Who knows whether there will still be demand for gas in 10 or 15 years." He accused the ministry of seeking to "maximise profits."In 2024, the energy ministry reported "record revenues" from gas production, with the state receiving 2.3 billion Israeli shekels ($640 million) in royalties, an increase of more than eight percent compared with the previous year.[1]Among international firms operating Israeli gas rigs are U.K.-based Energean and U.S. energy giant Chevron, while British Petroleum and Azerbaijan's state-owned SOCAR won bids in a previous licensing round.[1]Broader Context of Occupation and SettlementsAccording to Adalah, Israel has prevented the Palestinian Authority (PA) from accessing gas reserves in the Gaza Marine field since the early 2000s. The field, which experts estimate contains up to 30 billion cubic meters of gas, could generate up to $4 billion for the PA.Israel exports billions of dollars worth of gas to Egypt through the Ashkelon-Arish pipeline, which passes through Palestinian maritime territory without Palestinian consent.[1]The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) reported in 2019 that Israeli occupation has prevented Palestinians from developing their energy fields in the Levant Basin.[3]Meanwhile, Cohen has pushed policies aimed at consolidating Israeli control over occupied Palestinian territory. Last week, he announced plans to expand natural gas infrastructure in the occupied West Bank, stating "We are applying sovereignty in practice."He toldChannel 14 Newsthat his ministry was planning new power plants and gas pipelines across the West Bank, describing the move as "the economic key on the path to one million" settlers.[1]The U.S., Israel, and the UAE have also discussed using profits from Gaza's offshore gas to fund reconstruction, according to sources cited by Middle East Eye.[4]Conclusion: Unresolved Dispute Over Resource ControlThe dispute over offshore gas exploration highlights ongoing tensions between Israeli policy and international law regarding natural resources under occupation. Adalah has argued that continued exploration undermines the Palestinian right to self-determination.The energy ministry has not released the results of the licensing round since the tender was announced, and no resolution has been reached.[1]The broader implications extend beyond legal arguments, as energy infrastructure expansion in the West Bank and Gaza waters signals a deepening Israeli economic footprint in Palestinian territory.ReferencesNadav Rapaport. "Israel's Gaza offshore gas plans condemned as illegal resource grab." Middle East Eye. May 28, 2026."Gaza unsilenced." (Book)Dan Steinbock. "Whitewashing the Gaza Gas Exploration." Antiwar.com. October 31, 2025.Sean Mathews. "US, Israel and UAE discussed using Gaza gas to fund reconstruction, sources say." Middle East Eye. December 18, 2025.Elizabeth Riddell-Dixon. "Breaking the ice: Canada sovereignty and the Arctic extended continental shelf."Explainer InfographicEditorial Cartoon

Adalah's letter, shared withMiddle East Eye, stated that Israel "has no authority to operate" in Palestinian maritime areas, adding that exploration there would breach both Israeli and international law. The group argued that Israel could not use "its ongoing illegal occupation as justification for denying the sovereign rights of the State of Palestine and the Palestinian people."According to Adalah, the offshore drilling plans violate the Oslo Accords signed with the Palestinian Authority in 1993, which granted the PA control over its territorial waters.[1][2]ÂSuhad Bishara, Adalah's legal director, said the offshore drilling plans "cannot be separated from the broader accelerated Israeli policy aimed at establishing annexation and control over Palestinian land and resources."In a public statement, Bishara described the plan as not merely a violation of international law, "but an attempt to establish permanent control over Palestinian land and resources" in a way that undermines the Palestinian right to self-determination. The group also noted that allowing further exploration in Palestinian waters would breach international humanitarian law, which prohibits occupying powers from exploiting natural resources under occupation.[1]Environmental and Energy ConcernsYuval Arbel of the Zalul Environmental Association, an Israeli group focused on protecting seas and water resources, said Israel already has enough gas to meet its energy needs. "There is no need to increase gas production. Instead, there should be a transition to renewable energy," Arbel toldMiddle East Eye.He warned that offshore drilling poses serious risks to marine ecosystems and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Arbel added that the energy ministry operates on the assumption that renewable energy alone will not meet future demand, but added that the ministry is also motivated by profit.[1]"If gas is extracted from these sites, it will only happen in another six to 10 years," Arbel said. "Who knows whether there will still be demand for gas in 10 or 15 years." He accused the ministry of seeking to "maximise profits."In 2024, the energy ministry reported "record revenues" from gas production, with the state receiving 2.3 billion Israeli shekels ($640 million) in royalties, an increase of more than eight percent compared with the previous year.[1]Among international firms operating Israeli gas rigs are U.K.-based Energean and U.S. energy giant Chevron, while British Petroleum and Azerbaijan's state-owned SOCAR won bids in a previous licensing round.[1]Broader Context of Occupation and SettlementsAccording to Adalah, Israel has prevented the Palestinian Authority (PA) from accessing gas reserves in the Gaza Marine field since the early 2000s. The field, which experts estimate contains up to 30 billion cubic meters of gas, could generate up to $4 billion for the PA.Israel exports billions of dollars worth of gas to Egypt through the Ashkelon-Arish pipeline, which passes through Palestinian maritime territory without Palestinian consent.[1]The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) reported in 2019 that Israeli occupation has prevented Palestinians from developing their energy fields in the Levant Basin.[3]Meanwhile, Cohen has pushed policies aimed at consolidating Israeli control over occupied Palestinian territory. Last week, he announced plans to expand natural gas infrastructure in the occupied West Bank, stating "We are applying sovereignty in practice."He toldChannel 14 Newsthat his ministry was planning new power plants and gas pipelines across the West Bank, describing the move as "the economic key on the path to one million" settlers.[1]The U.S., Israel, and the UAE have also discussed using profits from Gaza's offshore gas to fund reconstruction, according to sources cited by Middle East Eye.[4]Conclusion: Unresolved Dispute Over Resource ControlThe dispute over offshore gas exploration highlights ongoing tensions between Israeli policy and international law regarding natural resources under occupation. Adalah has argued that continued exploration undermines the Palestinian right to self-determination.The energy ministry has not released the results of the licensing round since the tender was announced, and no resolution has been reached.[1]The broader implications extend beyond legal arguments, as energy infrastructure expansion in the West Bank and Gaza waters signals a deepening Israeli economic footprint in Palestinian territory.ReferencesNadav Rapaport. "Israel's Gaza offshore gas plans condemned as illegal resource grab." Middle East Eye. May 28, 2026."Gaza unsilenced." (Book)Dan Steinbock. "Whitewashing the Gaza Gas Exploration." Antiwar.com. October 31, 2025.Sean Mathews. "US, Israel and UAE discussed using Gaza gas to fund reconstruction, sources say." Middle East Eye. December 18, 2025.Elizabeth Riddell-Dixon. "Breaking the ice: Canada sovereignty and the Arctic extended continental shelf."Explainer InfographicEditorial Cartoon

According to Adalah, the offshore drilling plans violate the Oslo Accords signed with the Palestinian Authority in 1993, which granted the PA control over its territorial waters.[1][2]ÂSuhad Bishara, Adalah's legal director, said the offshore drilling plans "cannot be separated from the broader accelerated Israeli policy aimed at establishing annexation and control over Palestinian land and resources."In a public statement, Bishara described the plan as not merely a violation of international law, "but an attempt to establish permanent control over Palestinian land and resources" in a way that undermines the Palestinian right to self-determination. The group also noted that allowing further exploration in Palestinian waters would breach international humanitarian law, which prohibits occupying powers from exploiting natural resources under occupation.[1]Environmental and Energy ConcernsYuval Arbel of the Zalul Environmental Association, an Israeli group focused on protecting seas and water resources, said Israel already has enough gas to meet its energy needs. "There is no need to increase gas production. Instead, there should be a transition to renewable energy," Arbel toldMiddle East Eye.He warned that offshore drilling poses serious risks to marine ecosystems and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Arbel added that the energy ministry operates on the assumption that renewable energy alone will not meet future demand, but added that the ministry is also motivated by profit.[1]"If gas is extracted from these sites, it will only happen in another six to 10 years," Arbel said. "Who knows whether there will still be demand for gas in 10 or 15 years." He accused the ministry of seeking to "maximise profits."In 2024, the energy ministry reported "record revenues" from gas production, with the state receiving 2.3 billion Israeli shekels ($640 million) in royalties, an increase of more than eight percent compared with the previous year.[1]Among international firms operating Israeli gas rigs are U.K.-based Energean and U.S. energy giant Chevron, while British Petroleum and Azerbaijan's state-owned SOCAR won bids in a previous licensing round.[1]Broader Context of Occupation and SettlementsAccording to Adalah, Israel has prevented the Palestinian Authority (PA) from accessing gas reserves in the Gaza Marine field since the early 2000s. The field, which experts estimate contains up to 30 billion cubic meters of gas, could generate up to $4 billion for the PA.Israel exports billions of dollars worth of gas to Egypt through the Ashkelon-Arish pipeline, which passes through Palestinian maritime territory without Palestinian consent.[1]The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) reported in 2019 that Israeli occupation has prevented Palestinians from developing their energy fields in the Levant Basin.[3]Meanwhile, Cohen has pushed policies aimed at consolidating Israeli control over occupied Palestinian territory. Last week, he announced plans to expand natural gas infrastructure in the occupied West Bank, stating "We are applying sovereignty in practice."He toldChannel 14 Newsthat his ministry was planning new power plants and gas pipelines across the West Bank, describing the move as "the economic key on the path to one million" settlers.[1]The U.S., Israel, and the UAE have also discussed using profits from Gaza's offshore gas to fund reconstruction, according to sources cited by Middle East Eye.[4]Conclusion: Unresolved Dispute Over Resource ControlThe dispute over offshore gas exploration highlights ongoing tensions between Israeli policy and international law regarding natural resources under occupation. Adalah has argued that continued exploration undermines the Palestinian right to self-determination.The energy ministry has not released the results of the licensing round since the tender was announced, and no resolution has been reached.[1]The broader implications extend beyond legal arguments, as energy infrastructure expansion in the West Bank and Gaza waters signals a deepening Israeli economic footprint in Palestinian territory.ReferencesNadav Rapaport. "Israel's Gaza offshore gas plans condemned as illegal resource grab." Middle East Eye. May 28, 2026."Gaza unsilenced." (Book)Dan Steinbock. "Whitewashing the Gaza Gas Exploration." Antiwar.com. October 31, 2025.Sean Mathews. "US, Israel and UAE discussed using Gaza gas to fund reconstruction, sources say." Middle East Eye. December 18, 2025.Elizabeth Riddell-Dixon. "Breaking the ice: Canada sovereignty and the Arctic extended continental shelf."Explainer InfographicEditorial Cartoon

According to Adalah, the offshore drilling plans violate the Oslo Accords signed with the Palestinian Authority in 1993, which granted the PA control over its territorial waters.[1][2]ÂSuhad Bishara, Adalah's legal director, said the offshore drilling plans "cannot be separated from the broader accelerated Israeli policy aimed at establishing annexation and control over Palestinian land and resources."In a public statement, Bishara described the plan as not merely a violation of international law, "but an attempt to establish permanent control over Palestinian land and resources" in a way that undermines the Palestinian right to self-determination. The group also noted that allowing further exploration in Palestinian waters would breach international humanitarian law, which prohibits occupying powers from exploiting natural resources under occupation.[1]Environmental and Energy ConcernsYuval Arbel of the Zalul Environmental Association, an Israeli group focused on protecting seas and water resources, said Israel already has enough gas to meet its energy needs. "There is no need to increase gas production. Instead, there should be a transition to renewable energy," Arbel toldMiddle East Eye.He warned that offshore drilling poses serious risks to marine ecosystems and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Arbel added that the energy ministry operates on the assumption that renewable energy alone will not meet future demand, but added that the ministry is also motivated by profit.[1]"If gas is extracted from these sites, it will only happen in another six to 10 years," Arbel said. "Who knows whether there will still be demand for gas in 10 or 15 years." He accused the ministry of seeking to "maximise profits."In 2024, the energy ministry reported "record revenues" from gas production, with the state receiving 2.3 billion Israeli shekels ($640 million) in royalties, an increase of more than eight percent compared with the previous year.[1]Among international firms operating Israeli gas rigs are U.K.-based Energean and U.S. energy giant Chevron, while British Petroleum and Azerbaijan's state-owned SOCAR won bids in a previous licensing round.[1]Broader Context of Occupation and SettlementsAccording to Adalah, Israel has prevented the Palestinian Authority (PA) from accessing gas reserves in the Gaza Marine field since the early 2000s. The field, which experts estimate contains up to 30 billion cubic meters of gas, could generate up to $4 billion for the PA.Israel exports billions of dollars worth of gas to Egypt through the Ashkelon-Arish pipeline, which passes through Palestinian maritime territory without Palestinian consent.[1]The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) reported in 2019 that Israeli occupation has prevented Palestinians from developing their energy fields in the Levant Basin.[3]Meanwhile, Cohen has pushed policies aimed at consolidating Israeli control over occupied Palestinian territory. Last week, he announced plans to expand natural gas infrastructure in the occupied West Bank, stating "We are applying sovereignty in practice."He toldChannel 14 Newsthat his ministry was planning new power plants and gas pipelines across the West Bank, describing the move as "the economic key on the path to one million" settlers.[1]The U.S., Israel, and the UAE have also discussed using profits from Gaza's offshore gas to fund reconstruction, according to sources cited by Middle East Eye.[4]Conclusion: Unresolved Dispute Over Resource ControlThe dispute over offshore gas exploration highlights ongoing tensions between Israeli policy and international law regarding natural resources under occupation. Adalah has argued that continued exploration undermines the Palestinian right to self-determination.The energy ministry has not released the results of the licensing round since the tender was announced, and no resolution has been reached.[1]The broader implications extend beyond legal arguments, as energy infrastructure expansion in the West Bank and Gaza waters signals a deepening Israeli economic footprint in Palestinian territory.ReferencesNadav Rapaport. "Israel's Gaza offshore gas plans condemned as illegal resource grab." Middle East Eye. May 28, 2026."Gaza unsilenced." (Book)Dan Steinbock. "Whitewashing the Gaza Gas Exploration." Antiwar.com. October 31, 2025.Sean Mathews. "US, Israel and UAE discussed using Gaza gas to fund reconstruction, sources say." Middle East Eye. December 18, 2025.Elizabeth Riddell-Dixon. "Breaking the ice: Canada sovereignty and the Arctic extended continental shelf."Explainer InfographicEditorial Cartoon

Source: NaturalNews.com