Press Release: New Analysis

Six European countries most likely imported gas from Israel since October 7th 2023

As we move past the one-year anniversary of the surge of violence that began on October 7 2023, a new analysis from the Gastivists Collective brings new data to the table regarding the connection between fossil gas, the Israeli state and Europe.   

The analysis has two key findings:

1. Six countries in Europe most likely received LNG (liquified gas) shipments that contain some Israeli gas since 7th of October 2023. The countries: France, the UK, Italy, Poland, Greece and Belgium.
2. A total of eight ships, most likely carrying some Israeli gas, have delivered gas at nine terminals in Europe since October 7th 2023.
   The analysis is based on the Kpler platform, which tracks the movement of LNG ships.

Background: Israeli gas is extracted offshore Israel and sent via pipeline to Egypt. The gas exported to Egypt is used for domestic consumption or liquified (LNG) for export to Europe. This has been the case since 2022 when the EU signed a memorandum of understanding with Israel and Egypt to buy Israeli gas for European consumption.
It is currently impossible for terminals receiving ships from Egypt to know for a fact whether the gas is from Israel, Egypt, or a mix. Therefore it is safe to assume that the LNG shipments leaving Egypt for Europe most likely contained some Israeli gas.

As outlined in the analysis, while Israel’s LNG exports to the EU are minimal, the political and financial gains for Israel, particularly over the past year and amid current regional turbulence, are substantial. The analysis exposes how some of the six countries have been advocating for a ceasefire or an arms embargo against Israel, while others have suspended gas imports from Russia in response to its invasion of Ukraine and violations of international law. This situation underscores the double standards at play in their actions.

The Gastivists Collective: “The violence isout of hand and must be stopped. The killing and destruction in the Middle East are not an unavoidable tragedy. European leaders must act now, using every available tool to ensure International Humanitarian Law is upheld and protect lives. Economic measures, such as banning the purchase of Israeli gas, are among these critical tools. Boycotting Israeli gas poses minimal cost to Europe while representing a crucial step in the fight to stop a genocide”. 

For additional information & interview coordination: noelie@gastivists.org or yaara@gastivists.org