The best way to market hydrocarbons is by pipeline (Keystone XL, anyone?) We aren’t buying any gas and very little oil from Saudi Arabia. The best way to sell both is to ship to Europe by pipeline.
The Russians export gas, mostly to Europe. They don’t want the competition. I don’t think they want a pipeline through Syria that they don’t control. If Russia is buying the gas from Israel, it’s only to keep them from selling it to Europe.
Took me some searching, but maybe we could consider this article describing the situation.
It is an interesting read! I am very interested in your take on it.
http://news.goldseek.com/GoldenJackass/1377892800.php
Also found a link to this interesting interview.
Worth a listen, in my opinion.
http://usawatchdog.com/u-s-ship-of-state-is-sinking-its-a-derelict-vessel-jim-willie/