he start of natural-gas flow from the Leviathan rig is a momentous achievement for the State of Israel.
For the first time, a resource-poor country can become an energy superpower. The export of natural gas to immediate neighbors Jordan and Egypt--and later exported via Cyprus and Greece--strengthens Israel's geopolitical status both in the Middle East as well as the West.
In addition to formal peace alliances and security cooperation, Jordan and Egypt are turning to Israel to provide for their energy needs. In the past, Egypt exported gas to Israel. Israel already supplies Jordan with water. The cooperation is likely to lead further towards normalized ties with other Sunni Gulf states.
Natural-gas flow via a pipeline shared by Cyprus, Greece and Italy will link Israel more closely with Europe. An aggressive pipeline project to Italy would be among the deepest and longest underwater pipeline projects ever completed.
Obviously, the most important benefits of the gas flow will be felt at home. Together with Israel's ability to desalinate water, the country now has the ability to keep the lights on and water flowing well into the future.
Exports will generate tens of billions of dollars in tax revenues for the Israeli government. Additional funds can be used for infrastructure, health care, education and defense, and may even ease the tax burden on Israeli citizens. In addition, natural gas will completely replace coal as an Israeli energy source, which is expected to significantly lower air pollution.
In the time since gas at Leviathan was initially discovered, Israel has emerged into a regional defense superpower and a technical superpower that now boasts a top 10 global economy. Israel has also emerged from diplomatic isolation having productive trade relations with major global powers, including the United States, in Western Europe, China, India, Russia, and in the new frontiers of Africa, South America, Eastern Europe and Australia.
Israel's military strength has grown significantly, too. Israel has developed an immense qualitative edge over its enemies, including two new squadrons of F-35s; precision-guided missiles; advanced missile defense, including the Iron Dome, Arrow, David's Sling and Patriot systems; naval destroyers; submarines--all in addition to some of the world's most powerful weaponry.
The sharp economic growth, improved worldwide diplomatic relations and aggressive defense spending have been pillars of the Netanyahu doctrine. And yet, the deals signed to exploit and export natural gas will likely be considered among his crowning achievements.
The most important benefits will be felt at home.
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Jeremiah 33:3 Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.
The Bible could say more than it does BUT
The Bible doesn't say more than it says.
The Bible says what it means and means what it says.
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