Escalation of Competition for Gas in the Eastern Mediterranean Region 2011-2021

Abstract

Objectives: The study aimed to analyze the importance of regional competition for gas discoveries and its investment, the repercussions of the escalation of tension, and the roles of international forces affecting gas in the Eastern Mediterranean region during the period 2011-2021.

Methods: Data were collected through content analysis of maps and tables concerning gas discoveries in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Results: The results of the study revealed that both the increase in the volume of large gas discoveries and the large reserves of oil and gas have had an impact on the balance of power in the Eastern Mediterranean region and constituted a variable for the rules of the political game between its countries. Besides, they have reinforced the interventions of regional powers. Additionally, the discoveries have increased conflicts and disputes between the countries of the region over the exploitation of gas discoveries.

Conclusions: The important discoveries of natural gas that the region witnessed in recent years added new dimensions to the conflict in the Eastern Mediterranean. The important resources of national capabilities affected the foreign policies of different countries, not for the countries with the discoveries, but even for countries from outside the territory.