Gas Transit to Lebanon via Syria Opens New Revenue

Jordan's Council of Ministers approved agreements to supply Lebanon with natural gas through Jordanian infrastructure and across Syrian territory, according to the official Jordan News Agency (Petra). The gas will be delivered to Lebanon via the floating regasification vessel at Aqaba port, in cooperation with the Syrian side.

A Regional Transit Route

Economic researcher Fadi Ayyash says Syria emerges as a key link in this connection between Jordan and Lebanon through its territory. He notes the Jordanian decision practically reactivates the Arab Gas Pipeline project, which had faced challenges including the Caesar Act. The pipeline originally aimed to carry surplus Egyptian gas to Jordan, Syria and Lebanon, with its first phase completed in 2003.

Economic Gains for Damascus

Energy affairs academic and adviser Ziad Arbash says Syria's direct benefit lies in collecting transit and movement fees, noting Damascus could earn income from these fees if clear agreements are put in place, and that such fees could cover pipeline maintenance and security.

Ayyash adds that the agreement gives Syria the possibility of receiving in-kind transit fees, in the form of shares of natural gas or electricity, which he describes as support for the local electricity sector without hard-currency costs.

Maintenance and Job Opportunities

According to Arbash, operating and maintaining the line provides:

• Local jobs and tenders for infrastructure maintenance companies
• Guarding and route security services

Ayyash notes the project requires maintenance and rehabilitation of damaged pipeline sections within Syrian territory, meaning upgraded energy infrastructure and reduced operating costs for local stations that rely on expensive liquid fuel.

Reservations and Security Considerations

Arbash clarifies that the new contract passes gas through to Lebanon and does not necessarily mean increased gas supply to Syria itself, adding that Syria's benefit depends on the terms of the agreement. He also notes that gas lines crossing Syrian territory may require ongoing resources and security protection.

Earlier Agreement with Jordan

In January 2026, the Syrian Petroleum Company signed an agreement with Jordan's National Electric Power Company to supply Syria with about 4 million cubic meters of natural gas daily via Jordanian territory. Syrian Energy Minister Mohammad al-Bashir said the agreement marks an important step in securing the electricity sector's needs and improving power supply. Jordanian Minister Saleh al-Kharabsheh said the daily supply to Syria is about 4 million cubic meters (roughly 140 million cubic feet), supporting the stability of Syria's electricity sector.