Israel has announced the discovery of a new natural gas field named Katlan in the Mediterranean, marking the first such find in eight years. This update came from the country’s energy authorities through their official press channels. The bed volume is currently estimated at about 68 billion cubic meters, a figure that could expand with ongoing assessments and future drilling activity. The development rights were granted to Energean, a Greek-British energy company, which affirmed its readiness to commence work without delay as conditions permit. The news signals a potential milestone for regional gas supply and energy security in the eastern Mediterranean, alongside ongoing exploration programs in nearby waters.
Commenting on the find, Israel Katz, who holds the portfolio overseeing national infrastructure, energy, and water resources, noted the strong possibility of additional discoveries in the Mediterranean basin. The statement reflects a broader strategic interest in diversifying energy sources and strengthening regional energy ties.
Meanwhile, the energy outlook in the region includes discussions held last year between Israeli and Turkish authorities regarding a new natural gas pipeline. The plan would offer an alternative route for delivering gas from Southern Europe, potentially bypassing traditional supply lines through other routes. The discussions revisited the concept of an underwater pipeline extending from Leviathan, Israel’s major offshore field that currently fuels Israel, Jordan, and Egypt, toward Turkey, with the aim of ultimately connecting to Southern European markets. The idea has persisted through the years as a means of enhancing energy connectivity across the eastern Mediterranean.