eHalal Palestine
🇵🇸 US Official Confirms Plans for Utilizing Offshore Gas Reserves near Gaza for Palestinians
A high-ranking US official has affirmed that the offshore gas reserves in proximity to Gaza are set to benefit the Palestinian population. Speaking to The National in Manama, Amos Hochstein, the US Special Presidential Coordinator, emphasized the potential for the Gaza offshore gas reserves to serve as both a revenue source and a means of achieving energy independence for Palestine in a future arrangement.
Mr. Hochstein highlighted the importance of economic activity in shaping a future Gaza controlled by the Palestinian people, not a terrorist organization. While the US has refrained from calling for a Gaza ceasefire and is concentrating efforts on the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas, officials like Mr. Hochstein are actively considering the post-war scenario.
In his statement, Mr. Hochstein outlined the opportunity to develop offshore gas fields on behalf of the Palestinians, citing his year-and-a-half-long collaboration with the Palestinian Authority in Ramallah. He expressed confidence in the feasibility of such a development and stressed that post-war, there are companies ready to embark on the exploration and development of these fields.
While cautioning against exaggerating the potential of the gas reserves, Mr. Hochstein affirmed that they could indeed serve as a significant revenue stream for a Palestinian government, fostering an independent energy system for Palestine.
Addressing concerns about Israel’s cooperation, Mr. Hochstein stated with certainty, “yes, 100 percent,” confirming that Israel would allow for the proposed setup. He clarified that the gas rightfully belongs to the Palestinian people, and there is a clear mechanism developed to ensure the effectiveness and security of the venture.
Dismissing claims that the current Gaza war is driven by Israel’s desire to control the gas, Mr. Hochstein highlighted Israel’s substantial resources and clarified that the maritime agreement with Lebanon was aimed at its own development.
Acknowledging the grim circumstances of the current conflict, Mr. Hochstein underscored the absence of winners in such wars, emphasizing the profound toll of death and destruction. Despite the challenges, he remained optimistic about the potential for positive developments in the region and reiterated the importance of economic ties for fostering prosperity and reducing conflict.