Israeli energy minister confirms pipeline project and ExxonMobil exploration talks

Israeli Energy Minister Eli Cohen announced that the planned pipeline between Israel and Cyprus will proceed despite potential external opposition. During an interview with Channel 14, Cohen emphasized Israel's commitment to protecting its strategic interests and maintaining its military edge. He specifically expressed concerns regarding Turkey's potential acquisition of advanced weapons, urging the United States to intervene to preserve regional stability. Simultaneously, reports from the newspaper Maariv indicate that US energy giant ExxonMobil is in talks to join Israel's fifth licensing round for hydrocarbon exploration. This potential entry would involve a partnership with the company Energean, which currently operates the Karish natural gas field. The two firms are already collaborating on exploration projects in western Greece, suggesting a broader strategy for Eastern Mediterranean resource development. Cohen stated that Israel will continue its regional energy plans without interference, highlighting the country's defense capabilities.