Resolution of Disputes Arising from the Exploitation of Oil and Gas Resources, with Emphasis on the Oil Fields of the Islamic Republic of Iran and Qatar

Abstract

Approximately fifteen percent of oil reserves and half of gas reserves are located in shared reservoirs. According to studies, Iran, with a minimum of 28 hydrocarbon fields—including 18 oil fields, 4 gas fields, and 6 oil and gas fields—shared with seven neighboring countries, is one of the few countries in the world to possess such a number of common hydrocarbon structures. However, the fact that these resources are shared does not mean that Iran is benefiting equitably from them. This study aims to address the issues arising from Qatar's disproportionate extraction of shared oil and gas resources. It will consider bilateral and multilateral treaties, international agreements, and analyze the existing practices between the countries, as well as legal doctrinal theories, in order to propose solutions for resolving disputes stemming from the exploitation of shared fields between Iran and Qatar. Given the current situation of Iran, addressing this issue is essential to gain a proper understanding and precisely define its various aspects. The present research is theoretical in purpose and descriptive-analytical in methodology, based on qualitative, library-based data.