International disputes over joint oil and gas fields in the Arab East Region

The international dispute over shared oil and gas reserves is a complex global matter with political, legal, and economic implications. Oil and gas are national assets that must be carefully managed. This study has addressed an essential issue commonly arising in conflicts among the countries in the Arab East region. Multiple oil contracts have been concluded, but these are critical for establishing the necessary groundwork for exploring and investing in shared oil and gas reserves. However, the exploitation and development of these common or trans-regional fields sometimes give rise to legal and political complications, adversely affecting the equitable development and investment of these shared, cross-border resources. This study examines the primary sources of dispute in the Arab East region and the absence of peaceful and suitable resolutions for the parties involved. A comprehensive analysis using a historical, descriptive, and analytical approach revealed multiple conflicts among the Arab Mashreq region states around shared oil and gas reserves, including conflicts among Arab nations and disputes involving Iran. The intensity of these confrontations has hindered the utilization, advancement, and investment in shared resources, resulting in substantial losses for all countries involved.