Falklands Dispute: Argentina Sues Oil Company over Drilling

Argentina’s government will file criminal charges against energy company Navitas Petroleum and its executives for operating in the Falkland Islands.

The move comes after President Javier Milei vowed to sanction oil companies drilling in the British overseas territory as Argentina stepped up its sovereignty claims.

Foreign Minister Pablo Quirno will file the criminal complaint against several Navitas subsidiaries and partners operating in the territory, as well as their corporate directors.

Buenos Aires alleges that the companies violated Argentine law by holding hydrocarbon exploration and exploitation licenses issued by the United Kingdom in the North Falkland Basin. Navitas did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Last week, Milei singled out the Sea Lion offshore oil project while announcing measures targeting companies involved in oil and gas activities in the Falklands. Penalties could also extend to shareholders, directors and suppliers.

The Sea Lion field is operated by Tel Aviv-listed Navitas Petroleum, which holds a 65% stake. The company’s chairman, Gideon Tadmor, owns about 9% of its shares.

(Reuters, bak)