Gas shortages loom in Israel, casting a shadow over the nation's energy security. The country's LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) reserves are alarmingly low, raising concerns among businesses and consumers alike. Despite the government's assurances, the situation is dire, especially for industries that rely on LPG for heating, energy production, and manufacturing processes. As the cold season approaches, the demand for gas intensifies, leaving Israelis vulnerable to a potential crisis. The issue is not new; it's a result of a decade-long trend of operating with minimal security stock, relying heavily on local refinery production from the Bazan complex in Haifa Bay. This structural decision, based on the assumption that imports could quickly fill any gaps, has left the economy vulnerable to disruptions. The recent attack on the Bazan complex in June 2025, caused by an Iranian missile, further exacerbated the situation, leading to major shutdowns and operational disruptions. The LPG market, already under tension, faces challenges in filling the gap through imports due to high costs, ship availability issues, and limited unloading infrastructure. The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, however, remains confident, claiming no disruption to LPG supply and emphasizing their efforts to ensure availability. But the reality is that Israelis could wake up one morning to find themselves out of cooking gas, highlighting the need for urgent action and a comprehensive strategy to address this critical energy security concern.
