TEL AVIV: Benjamin Netanyahu has suggested that new oil and gas pipelines could be developed across the Arabian Peninsula to transport energy resources to Israeli ports, reducing reliance on maritime routes vulnerable to disruption, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz.
Speaking at a press briefing in Jerusalem, Netanyahu argued that such infrastructure would help bypass risks posed by Iran in Gulf waters. His remarks came shortly after a significant escalation in hostilities, including an Israeli strike on Iran’s major gas facility at South Pars, which triggered retaliatory attacks on energy sites across the region and pushed global energy prices higher.
During the conference, Netanyahu defended Israel’s military actions, stating that Tehran’s nuclear capabilities had been severely weakened. He claimed Iran no longer has the ability to enrich uranium or produce missiles assertions that have been challenged by the International Atomic Energy Agency. Its chief, Rafael Grossi, indicated that key elements of Iran’s nuclear capacity remain intact, including technical expertise and infrastructure.
Netanyahu also said that Israel carried out the South Pars operation independently, noting that Donald Trump had urged restraint regarding further strikes. Trump has faced political pressure at home due to rising fuel prices and has criticized allies for their limited role in securing vital shipping lanes.
The Israeli leader emphasized that creating alternative overland energy routes could permanently eliminate dependence on chokepoints like Hormuz, potentially reshaping regional energy dynamics in the aftermath of the conflict.
The war, which began on February 28 following unsuccessful negotiations over Iran’s nuclear programme, has seen sustained missile and drone exchanges between Iran and Israel, as well as impacts on Gulf countries.
Netanyahu added that Israel’s objective extends beyond targeting Iran’s remaining missile systems and nuclear infrastructure to dismantling the industries supporting them. However, he acknowledged that any potential political change within Iran would ultimately depend on its people, suggesting that military action alone would not be sufficient and hinting at the possibility of broader strategies, including ground operations, without providing further details.
