In Gaza, keeping a medical device running can depend on access to engine oil. A Reuters report published on 10 September 2026 describes shortages of lubricants, spare parts and fuel threatening generators serving hospitals and residential neighbourhoods. Equipment designed for emergencies carries the burden of everyday electricity supply, without assured maintenance.

This raises a fundamental question for Palestinian reconstruction: who controls whether infrastructure keeps working? Financing power plants and purchasing generators are essential. But energy security requires Palestinians to make decisions about supplying, repairing and expanding their electricity system. The central problem is the gap between owning equipment and controlling its use.

Resources offshore, dependence onshore

Gaza Marine illustrates this gap. With estimated reserves exceeding one trillion cubic feet, the offshore gas field offers a potential source of fuel and Palestinian revenue. Yet its development has faced political disputes, conflict with Israel and economic obstacles. Even Israel’s preliminary approval in June 2023 was conditional on its security and diplomatic requirements.

Gas beneath the sea does not automatically become electricity in a hospital. Development requires capital, infrastructure and workable agreements. When progress depends on decisions beyond the resource owners’ control, energy sovereignty remains constrained.

Gas beneath the sea does not automatically become electricity in a hospital. Development requires capital, infrastructure and workable agreements. When progress depends on decisions beyond the resource owners’ control, energy sovereignty remains constrained.

Gaza Marine belongs in a longer-term strategy. Promises of future gas revenue cannot substitute for admitting equipment and restoring essential services today.

Two territories, a shared constraint

In Gaza, infrastructure........

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