In order to counter these potential threats, Israel’s government is considering the allocation of US$100 million for the purchase of new Naval vessels to bolster its ability to protect its economic interests
Israel’s discovery of large natural gas fields off its Mediterranean coast, has managed to raise tensions with Lebanon.
Lebanon's government has issued claims that some of the gas fields are within its sovereign waters and threatened to attack Israeli natural gas interests. Turkey, has also taken an aggressive posture and started staking claims in Cypriote waters near Israeli gas finds.
Israel security officials have expressed concerns that terror groups like Hizbullah and Hamas will try to attack the Israeli gas rigs at sea in explosive-laden ships, or with anti-ship missiles.
Security officials noted that Iran has recently increased the tension announcing plans to deploy warships in the Mediterranean.
In order to counter these potential threats, Israel’s government is considering the allocation of US$100 million for the purchase of new Naval vessels to bolster its ability to protect its economic interests.
Due to the high costs involved in buying highly advanced naval vessels, Israeli officials are considering a idea whereby the companies who will reap the profits of future gas rigs, will underwrite part of the naval vessel’s acquisition.
