Recognised Palestinian state could develop disputed gas resources, expert says

The Palestinian Authority's ability to use the Gaza Marine field could leave them less dependent on aid

Recognition of Palestine as a state would put beyond doubt that the Palestinian Authority (PA) is entitled to develop the natural gas resources of the Gaza Marine field, according to one of the experts that worked on the stalled project.

Michael Barron, the author of a new book on Palestine's untapped gas reserves, has suggested the field could generate $4bn (3bn) in revenue at current prices and it is reasonable that the PA could receive $100m a year over 15 years.