UN Rapporteur Slams Egypt–Israel Gas Deal as Complicity in Genocide

Francesca Albanese, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the occupied Palestinian territories, has condemned Egypt’s multibillion-dollar gas deal with Israel, calling it a violation of international law and a form of complicity in the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Albanese tweeted that Egypt’s purchase of $35 billion worth of gas from Israel “violates international law, including the International Court of Justice’s 2024 advisory opinion.” She described the deal as “an incredible sign of support to Israel during the genocide of the Palestinians.”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the ratification of the deal last week, which had been signed four months earlier. He highlighted the agreement as the largest in Israel’s history, worth 112 billion shekels, with 58 billion shekels directly benefiting the state treasury. The deal amends Egypt’s 2019 gas import agreement, increasing the contracted volume by 130 billion cubic meters and extending the supply period through 2040.

The amendment links export prices to Brent Crude benchmarks, with some adjustments for future phases. Current prices stand at $7.70 per million British thermal units. The deal has drawn controversy, with Netanyahu publicly freezing its implementation in September, citing an alleged breach of the Camp David Accords by Egypt for deploying troops near the Israeli border.

Sources within Egypt’s Ministry of Petroleum suggested to Al Manassa that the real motive behind the freeze was Israel’s push to renegotiate prices, seeking an increase of $3 per million British thermal units. The dispute highlights the complex interplay between economic interests and geopolitical tensions in the region.

In mid-June, Israel halted gas flows to Egypt amid escalating military confrontations with Iran. The disruption affected fertilizer production and led to a spike in domestic prices. Gas supplies resumed gradually after June 26, underscoring the fragile balance of cooperation and conflict in the region.

The gas deal reflects broader patterns of Israeli influence through economic and energy ties, raising concerns about complicity in ongoing hostilities. As the deal moves forward, it underscores the intricate web of international relations and the ethical implications of such partnerships.

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