France’s Eastern Mediterranean energy strategy: Between commercial pragmatism and geopolitical ambition

France has emerged as a significant actor in the Eastern Mediterranean energy landscape, combining commercial interests, geopolitical ambition, and European energy security priorities. Its approach rests on three pillars: support for French corporate activity, especially through TotalEnergies; strategic alignment with Greece, Cyprus, Egypt, and Israel; and efforts to counterbalance Turkey’s growing assertiveness in the region. Since the major gas discoveries of the 2010s, France’s policy has evolved into a multi-layered strategy involving diplomacy, military presence, and energy investment. Recent developments between 2024 and 2026 show a more pragmatic shift away from costly pipeline visions and toward commercially viable export routes through Egypt.  Commercial Interests and the Role of TotalEnergies TotalEnergies plays a central role in France’s Eastern Mediterranean policy. In […]