Welcome to DU! The truly grassroots left-of-center political community where regular people, not algorithms, drive the discussions and set the standards. Join the community: Create a free account Support DU (and get rid of ads!): Become a Star Member Latest Breaking News Editorials & Other Articles General Discussion The DU Lounge All Forums Issue Forums Culture Forums Alliance Forums Region Forums Support Forums Help & Search

Eugene

(62,658 posts)
Sat Aug 14, 2021, 03:10 AM Aug 2021

Secretive Israel-UAE oil deal endangers prized Eilat corals

Source: Associated Press

Secretive Israel-UAE oil deal endangers prized Eilat corals

By ILAN BEN ZION
August 14, 2021

EILAT, Israel (AP) — The Red Sea reefs off the Israeli resort of Eilat host some of the greatest coral diversity on the planet.

A symphony in splendid technicolor, the reefs are among the world’s most resilient coral colonies against warming seas. They have also become an unlikely battleground, caught between Israeli diplomatic and business interests, and ecological groups that fear this natural treasure could be in danger.

A clandestine oil deal struck last year as part of the historic agreement establishing formal diplomatic ties between Israel and the United Arab Emirates is turning Eilat into a waypoint for Emirati oil headed for Western markets.

Initially hailed as a move that could cement fledgling diplomatic ties and further Israel’s energy ambitions, the deal is now in question after Israel’s new government opened a review. The decision has upset investors and risks a diplomatic spat with Israel’s Gulf allies.

-snip-


Read more: https://apnews.com/article/europe-middle-east-business-israel-environment-and-nature-f159e6350d9c8c391db98589fd516002
Latest Discussions»Issue Forums»Israel/Palestine»Secretive Israel-UAE oil ...