Israeli Haifa refinery hit by missile, Energy Ministry seeks swift recovery

Israel’s Energy Ministry has confirmed that natural gas exports will resume only when the military deems it safe, as the ongoing air conflict between Israel and Iran enters its sixth day.

Eli Cohen, Israel’s Energy Minister, disclosed that two of the country’s three major offshore gas fields — Chevron-operated Leviathan and Energean’s Karish — have been shut since June 13 due to the escalating hostilities. These fields are pivotal for exports to Egypt and Jordan, leaving the older Tamar field operational primarily for domestic consumption, Caliber.Az reports, citing Israeli media.

“They can see that we are in a war. I don't want to use our strategic storage, so therefore, I needed to cut exports,” Cohen said following a news briefing. “I hope I will be able to use another rig as soon as possible and use it for the supply of gas (exports). For me, the most important thing is (supplying) Israel.”

The exact timeline for reopening the closed fields remains uncertain. “We are working with them [the military], the Navy, and right now their recommendation is that one (field) will continue to work and two will be shut down,” Cohen said.

Israeli gas supplies constitute approximately 15-20 per cent of Egypt’s consumption, according to data from the Joint Organisations Data Initiative (JODI). The disruption in Israeli gas deliveries has already forced Egyptian fertilizer plants to suspend operations since June 13.

The conflict intensified after Israel launched airstrikes against Iran, accusing Tehran of nearing nuclear weapons development, a claim Iran denies, maintaining its nuclear program is for civilian purposes only.

Despite recent Iranian missile strikes, including one targeting Israel’s Oil Refineries in Haifa that caused fatalities and halted operations, Cohen assured that the energy sector remains stable with no expected shortages. A second refinery in the south continues to operate.

“We have very strong energy facilities that can supply all the energy demands for Israeli citizens and the army, in fuel, gas, electricity and water,” Cohen affirmed, acknowledging that while victory may take weeks, Israel’s energy needs will be met.

Notably, Israel has more than doubled its reliance on renewable energy, with solar power now accounting for approximately 40 per cent of electricity production since June 13. Some infrastructure, including wastewater treatment plants and pipelines, has sustained damage due to Iranian airstrikes.

Cohen expressed optimism about restoring full functionality to the Haifa refinery within a month, underscoring efforts to stabilize energy supply amid the ongoing conflict.

By Vafa Guliyeva