Energy Competition and Its Impact on Regional Security: Natural Gas in the Eastern Mediterranean as a Case Study

Abstract

Research on the Energy Competition in the Eastern Mediterranean, with a particular focus on natural gas as a key determinant of regional security. Offshore gas discoveries along the coasts of Egypt, Israel, Cyprus, Greece, and Lebanon have positioned the region as an emerging gas basin attracting significant international attention, especially from Europe in its pursuit of diversified energy supplies. The paper analyzes the constellation of key actors, pipeline projects, and the implications of gas competition for maritime disputes, political alignments, and prospects for cooperation. It concludes that natural gas functions simultaneously as a catalyst for cooperation and a source of tension, depending on prevailing geopolitical contexts.

Keywords: Natural Gas, Energy Security, Eastern Mediterranean, Geopolitical Competition, Regional Security.