Why the Falklands oil project is at the heart of the latest UK-Argentina spat
Argentina seeks a temporary halt
Argentina formally filed its complaint at the tribunal on October 13. It is seeking provisional measures to suspend drilling while the dispute is considered. The tribunal, based in Hamburg, is hearing the case over two days. Argentina says environmental concerns are among the reasons for its challenge to offshore exploration.
Sea Lion project plans
Sea Lion lies about 220km, or 137 miles, from the Falkland Islands. The field is operated by Israel’s Navitas Petroleum, alongside the UK’s Rockhopper Exploration.
Political tensions deepen
The islands’ residents voted overwhelmingly in 2013 to remain with the United Kingdom. Argentina’s lawyer, Mario Oyarzabal, argued that the resources belong to the Argentine people, including the 1,247 inhabitants born on the islands.
UK sets out its position
A spokesperson for Prime Minister Andy Burnham said on Monday that the UK was taking part in the process under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. The spokesperson said the UK would present its position on Argentina’s request to the tribunal.
Key points
- Argentina wants the tribunal to order a temporary suspension of drilling near the Falkland Islands.
- The Sea Lion project is operated by Rockhopper Exploration and Navitas Petroleum.
- Development is expected to start in March 2027, with oil production planned for 2028.
- The dispute adds to longstanding tensions between the UK and Argentina over the islands.