CONTROL OF NATURAL RESOURCES
International law
International bodies, including the UN and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), have highlighted that the occupying power has a legal obligation not to exploit or damage the natural resources of an occupied territory. UN General Assembly resolutions have repeatedly demanded that Israel cease its exploitation of Palestinian natural resources and recognized the Palestinian people’s right to compensation.
Control over Palestinian natural resources has been a core element of the Israeli occupation since 1967, particularly concerning water, land, and energy. Following the International Court of Justice (ICJ) advisory opinion in July 2024, the United Nations has reasserted that the exploitation of these resources by the occupying power is illegal under international law.
Land and energy resources
Israeli control extends to Palestinian land and other valuable resources, impacting Palestinian economic development and livelihoods.
Oil and natural gas: The Palestinian territories have confirmed oil and gas reserves, including the Gaza Marine field off the coast of Gaza. However, Israel has prevented Palestinians from developing these resources, potentially losing billions of dollars in revenue.
Quarrying and mining: Israel restricts Palestinian quarrying in Area C, which contains most of the natural rock reserves. At the same time, Israeli businesses exploit these resources, including rock, salt, and Dead Sea minerals, for their own economic gain.
Environmental degradation: Industrial zones within Israeli settlements have discharged untreated wastewater and solid waste onto Palestinian land, contaminating the environment and creating public health hazards.
Exploitation of minerals: International reports indicate that Palestinian territory holds untapped mineral resources such as magnesium, aluminum, and silicon. Political and territorial challenges, however, prevent Palestinians from exploring and developing these reserves.
Posted by Irv Himelblau for the Palestine Israeli Justice Group