Expert: Egypt distances itself from Israeli energy amid tensions

Egypt shifted from being a liquefied natural gas (LNG) exporter to an importer in 2024, driven by growing domestic demand, reduced output, and operational difficulties at the Zohr gas field. As a result, the country is increasingly turning to alternative suppliers such as Russia, Qatar, and Turkey.

According to strategic affairs expert General Mohamed Abdel Wahid, Egypt is also deliberately distancing itself from Israel, a longtime energy partner, due to rising political tensions. Speaking to Al-Arab, he noted that Egypt is reacting to what it sees as Israel crossing key “red lines,” particularly regarding discussions around the displacement of Palestinians from Gaza.

Since 2020, Israel has exported natural gas to Egypt from its Leviathan and Tamar fields via the Eastern Mediterranean Gas pipeline. Egypt would then liquefy the gas and re-export it to Europe, while keeping a portion for domestic use. This arrangement had been mutually advantageous, providing Israel access to European markets and reinforcing Egypt’s role as a regional gas hub.

However, the war in Gaza has strained bilateral relations, casting uncertainty over this energy cooperation and prompting Egypt to diversify its import portfolio.