TotalEnergies to launch Block 9 exploration activities in Lebanon

TotalEnergies and its partner Eni have signed a framework agreement with Israel to implement an agreement on maritime boundary signed between Israel and Lebanon last month.

In Lebanon, TotalEnergies is the operator of the exploration Block 9, and holds a 60% interest, alongside the 40% held by its partner Eni, the company said in a statement.

Following the signing of the framework agreement, the Block 9 partners will initiate the exploration of an already identified prospect which might extend both in Block 9 and into Israel waters South of the recently established Maritime Border Line, TotalEnergies said.

Preparation of exploration activities starts now with the mobilisation of the teams, the purchase of required equipment and the procurement of a drilling rig.

“TotalEnergies, as the operator of block 9, is proud to be associated with the peaceful definition of a maritime border between Israel and Lebanon,” Patrick Pouyanné, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of TotalEnergies, said in a statement.

“By bringing our expertise in offshore exploration, we will respond to the request of both countries to assess the materiality of hydrocarbon resources and production potential in this area,” he added.