Netanyahu Discusses Energy Strategies Amid War with Iran
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu mentioned on Thursday that ongoing tensions with Iran could potentially open up new oil and gas routes through the Arabian Peninsula, directing energy supplies to Israel’s Mediterranean ports. This shift could help global energy markets bypass Iranian threats in critical passageways like the Strait of Hormuz.
During a press conference, as the conflict reached its 20th day, Netanyahu stated that Israel and the U.S. were collaborating closely to achieve “feasible objectives.” He expressed optimism that, once these objectives were met, the region could transition to safer and more dependable energy transportation methods.
“To ensure that oil flows smoothly, we need alternative routes instead of relying on the challenging areas of the Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb,” Netanyahu highlighted.
He proposed a vision for a post-war scenario where pipelines would extend westward through the Arabian Peninsula to connect directly with Israel’s Mediterranean ports, thus providing a land-based alternative to the risky maritime routes.
“Pipelines running westward across the Arabian Peninsula to Israel and onward to Mediterranean ports would effectively eliminate the chokepoint issue,” he remarked, asserting that the idea is “completely plausible.”
“I envision this transformation occurring as a consequence of this war,” he added, suggesting the conflict might resolve “much sooner than anticipated.”
The urgency for alternative routes has been amplified by Iran’s increasing assaults on energy infrastructure in the Gulf, which threaten shipping through the Strait of Hormuz—a crucial waterway responsible for about 20% of the world’s oil supply. This situation is straining global markets and causing a rise in energy costs.
Current pipeline systems, such as Saudi Arabia’s East-West Petroline and the UAE’s Habshan-Fujairah pipeline, are already mitigating some disruptions, allowing for energy exports to steer clear of Hormuz while local producers strive to ensure supply stability.
This strategy aligns with insights shared earlier by Brigadier General Amir Abibi (Res.), who argued for the development of land-based energy corridors connected to existing infrastructure amid the ongoing crisis.
Mr. Abibi suggested the integration of Saudi Arabia’s East-West Pipeline with Israel’s Eilat-Ashkelon pipeline, which could facilitate Gulf oil transport from the Red Sea to Mediterranean ports, effectively establishing a land link between Asian energy sources and European markets.
He contended that such corridors would enhance stability in global energy flows, position Israel as a key transportation hub, and minimize vulnerability to recurring disruptions in the Gulf.
Netanyahu has also announced a broader strategic campaign against Iran, emphasizing that the nation’s nuclear ambitions pose a significant threat if ignored.
Quoting Winston Churchill, he remarked that democracies often recognize imminent dangers too late and warned that a nuclear-capable Iran would signify “the end.”
“Iran obtaining nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles is a grave signal,” Netanyahu stressed. “It’s not just a troubling situation; it’s an apocalypse. We must prevent it.”
He praised former President Donald Trump’s leadership, underscoring the collaborative nature of their efforts: Israel and the U.S. have united toward “a common aim of safeguarding our future and protecting our civilization.”
As the operation enters its third week, Netanyahu expressed confidence in its progress, noting that Iran’s military capabilities appear to be diminishing.
