The Israeli government has ordered Chevron to suspend operations at the offshore Leviathan gas field. The order, issued by the Minister of Energy & Infrastructure on February 28, is based on a security recommendation and is effective until further notice. The Commissioner of Petroleum Affairs has instructed that gas production be halted, requiring the field's partners to prepare a flexible operating policy for the platform based on ongoing security assessments.

Impact on Gas Supply and Sales

Leviathan is Israel's largest gas field and a critical domestic supplier, also providing vital feedstocks to neighboring Jordan and Egypt. Due to the production suspension, the field's partners, including NewMed Energy, intend to notify their customers of the activation of a force majeure clause in their gas sales agreements.

Broader Context and Company Response

This order follows a similar directive for Energean to shut down production at its Karish gas field offshore Israel. Chevron confirmed the temporary shutdown, stating that its people and facilities are safe and that safety is its top priority. The company deferred to Israeli authorities regarding the security situation in the country.