Argentina Files Criminal Complaint Against Israeli Energy Firm Over Falklands Oil Project

Argentina has filed a criminal complaint against an Israeli energy company, Navitas, and other firms involved in oil and gas exploration and production, alleging the use of invalid licenses. The dispute centers on the Sea Lion offshore oil field, located approximately 220 kilometers north of the Falkland Islands. Navitas, an Israeli company, holds a 65% stake and operates the project, with the British firm Rockhopper holding the remaining 35%.

In late 2025, an investment of around $1.8 billion was approved for the first phase of development, aiming for commercial production to begin in 2028. This initial phase is reportedly planned to yield about 50,000 barrels of oil per day.

The Argentine government contends that the operations violate Law 26,659, which prohibits hydrocarbon exploration and production in areas it considers part of the Argentine continental shelf without Buenos Aires' approval. Concurrently, the government has initiated administrative proceedings against dozens of companies and individuals associated with the activities in the region.

Navitas and Rockhopper have rejected the accusations, asserting their operations are based on legal licenses granted by the Falkland Islands government and fully supported by the British government. Both companies stated they do not anticipate the Argentine actions will delay the project's timeline.