US Energy Secretary Cancels Israel Trip Amid Gas Deal Dispute

A brewing dispute over a natural gas agreement has led to the cancellation of a planned visit to Israel by US Energy Secretary Chris Wright. According to reports from Annahar, the cancellation stems from disagreements regarding a significant gas export deal with Egypt. The core issue revolves around the terms and pricing of the proposed agreement.

The Core of the Dispute

At the heart of the matter is a $35 billion deal that would allow Israel to export natural gas to Egypt. However, Israeli Energy Minister Eli Cohen has reportedly refused to sign the agreement. His reluctance is rooted in concerns over domestic gas pricing and what he perceives as a need to safeguard Israeli national interests. Cohen insists that a fair market price for local consumers must be secured before the deal proceeds, and that Israel’s own energy needs must be fully met.

The Stakes and the Players

The deal, if finalized, would enable Israel to supply Egypt with 130 billion cubic meters of gas from the Leviathan field through 2040. In recent days, the Trump administration has reportedly exerted significant pressure on both Cohen and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to approve the agreement. Despite this pressure, Cohen has maintained his position, emphasizing the importance of ensuring attractive gas prices for Israeli consumers and completing negotiations before any deal is struck.

Diplomatic Efforts and Broader Implications

Parallel diplomatic efforts are underway to resolve wider bilateral issues between Israel and Egypt. The disagreement highlights the complexities of energy deals and the delicate balance between national interests, international agreements, and market forces. The cancellation of the US Energy Secretary’s visit underscores the seriousness of the situation and the potential impact on regional energy dynamics.