Introduction
Interest in the estimated 122 trillion cubic feet (tcf) of natural gas and 1.7 billion barrels of oil in the Eastern Mediterranean basin1 has resonated significantly on both regional and global scales. The gas reserves, believed to have the potential to provide geopolitical and geo-economic advantages, have caused states in the Eastern Mediterranean and beyond to reevaluate their strategic calculations and perspectives. With the prospect of major connectivity and energy projects transforming the geo-economics of the Eastern Mediterranean, countries in the region are maneuvering to position themselves as a nodal point in potential corridors linking Asia and Europe. For any interested party, the least desirable outcome is to be left out of the equation. Currently, Turkish Petroleum Corporation (TPAO), Exxon Mobil, Nobel, Total, Eni, Kogas, Qatar Petroleum, British Gas, and the Israeli companies Delek and Avner are working hard to snag a role in the Mediterranean. Adding to the complexity, non-regional actors, such as the U.S., Russia, and the UK, are also trying to be part of the developments. In this context, it is relevant to examine whether energy discoveries and objectives promote the hoped-for transformative regional cooperation for local and external actors. The presence of ongoing geopolitical rivalries and historical antagonisms in the region makes this assessment even more valuable. Indeed, to make predictions about the region's future, it is essential to reveal whether these factors contribute positively or negatively to this exciting process. By identifying their own strengths and weaknesses as well as external opportunities and challenges, the article employs SWOT analysis as a method of situation analysis based on internal and external competitive environment and conditions.2 The analysis aims to clearly explain the external strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of Israel’s position in the Eastern Mediterranean energy resources.
