Argentina condemns Israeli company’s oil development plans near Falkland Islands

The Argentine government has strongly criticised Israeli energy firm Navitas Petroleum for its plans to develop oil and gas resources near the Falkland Islands, known in Argentina as the Islas Malvinas.

The Argentine Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a formal statement condemning the company’s activities and warning that further measures may be taken to defend the country’s sovereign interests, Caliber.Az reports. 

In its statement, the Foreign Ministry reiterated Argentina’s “strongest rejection” of what it described as “illegal activities” being carried out by Navitas Petroleum in the surrounding waters of the Falkland Islands. According to the ministry, the company is operating illegitimately in Argentine territory without the required exploration and exploitation permits from Argentine authorities.

Argentina emphasised that it does not recognise the authority of any other government or entity to issue permits related to hydrocarbon activities in the contested area.

“In this regard, and in full compliance with international law, Argentina reserves the right to take all additional measures it deems necessary to protect its sovereign rights and interests,” the ministry stated.

The remarks were made following Navitas Petroleum’s announcement of an environmental and socio-economic impact assessment as well as a fundraising campaign for the planned oil field development. The company has been under Argentine sanctions since April 2022.

By Sabina Mammadli