Israel Halts Gas Exports Amid Iran Conflict, Energy Sector Stable

Israel has temporarily halted natural gas exports from its Leviathan and Karish fields due to escalating conflict with Iran, with only the older Tamar field remaining operational to meet domestic needs. Energy Minister Eli Cohen emphasized that exports will resume once the military deems it safe, balancing strategic storage and supply priorities amid ongoing hostilities. The suspension significantly impacts Egypt and Jordan, which rely on Israeli gas, with Egyptian fertilizer producers halting operations due to the supply disruption. Despite attacks on infrastructure, including an oil refinery in Haifa, Israel’s energy sector continues to operate normally, supported by reserves in coal, diesel, and renewable energy, with renewable electricity production rising to 40%. Cohen has maintained communication with Egypt and Jordan to manage the export cutbacks and hopes to bring other gas rigs back online as security conditions permit. The conflict, triggered by Israel’s air campaign against Iran over nuclear concerns, has created uncertainty over when full gas export capacity will be restored.