Questions and answers
Who is Ghazi Mahmoud?
A Lebanese researcher and columnist on economic and energy affairs, and a retired brigadier general of the Lebanese Army. He has held a PhD in economics from the Lebanese University since 2023.
What does he write about?
Energy, oil and gas; banking and money; the Lebanese economy and public finance; the world economy; and regional security.
Where are his articles published?
In Lebanese and Arab newspapers, magazines and news sites: Annahar, Al-Iktissad Wal-Aamal, Lebanese Army Magazine, Lebanese National Defense Magazine, Al-Duha magazine, Anbaa Online, OZ Arab Media, Lebanon Files, Channel 23, MTV Lebanon, Radar News, Taqamena, Mahatat News. The articles page gives every article in English, with links to the published copies.
In which languages does he write?
In Arabic, with some articles in English. They are given here in English too.
What is his book?
The Financial and Economic Prospects of Lebanon's Oil Wealth (الآفاق المالية والاقتصادية لثروة لبنان النفطية), by Ghazi Salim Mahmoud, published in Arabic by Dar Al-Rafidain, ISBN 978-9-9227213-5-4. See the book page.
What is the book about?
From the author's back cover text, translated from the Arabic: "The book sheds light on the stages of Lebanon's recent attempts to explore for oil and gas in the waters of its exclusive economic zone, and sets out their main results. It covers oil and gas from both the theoretical and the practical side, so the reader can grasp the subject of oil wealth in all its aspects."
What does the book conclude?
From the author's back cover text, translated from the Arabic: "The book concludes that the solution to Lebanon's financial and economic crisis, whatever the size of the oil resources and their expected revenues, lies in managing these resources wisely and investing them in productive sectors that drive the national economy: management that preserves the rights of future generations to their national wealth and achieves the balanced economic growth Lebanon still lacks."
Is the book his PhD thesis?
The book is based on the PhD thesis he defended at the Lebanese University in November 2023.
What did his thesis study?
The financial and economic prospects of Lebanon's oil and gas wealth. He prepared it at the Doctoral School of Law, Political, Administrative and Economic Sciences of the Lebanese University between 2016 and 2023.
What is his academic background?
Three degrees from the Lebanese University: a licence in economics (1989), a master's degree in international economics (2014) and a PhD in economics (2023).
What is his military background?
He served 22 years in the Lebanese Army (1992 to 2014) as an officer in logistics accounting and administration, then five years (2014 to 2019) as a colonel heading the administrative section of the Airport Security Service of the Ministry of Interior and Municipalities. He is now a retired brigadier general.
Where was the book signed?
At a seminar and signing at the National Library in Baakline in April 2025, and at the Beirut Arab International Book Fair on 23 May 2025.
On which channels has he appeared?
Tele Liban, AlMamlaka TV, MFM Lebanon, Sharraftouna, Al Ghad TV. See all appearances (in Arabic).
What did he write about the Kirkuk-Tripoli oil pipeline and what it means for Lebanon?
In his article "The Kirkuk-Tripoli Pipeline Puts Lebanon Back on the Economic Map" (2 Jul 2026) he wrote: "Iraq's announcement of the formation of a high-level committee to negotiate with Turkey on extending the crude oil export agreement via the Iraq-Turkey pipeline to the port of Ceyhan has raised questions about the fate of the Kirkuk-Tripoli pipeline, which runs from Iraq through Syria to Lebanon, and the importance of reactivating it for both Lebanon and Iraq."
What did he write about the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and the alternative export routes?
In his article "The Strait of Hormuz and Alternative Export Routes" (15 Jul 2026) he wrote: "Renewed escalation between the United States and Iran has returned the Strait of Hormuz to the forefront of events in the Arabian Gulf region, underscoring the pivotal position it occupies in the international trade system, particularly the oil and gas trade."
What did he write about the role of oil wealth in Lebanon's economic recovery?
In his article "Prospective Oil Wealth and Its Role in Lebanon's Economic Recovery" (5 Mar 2025) he wrote: "With Lebanon having completed its constitutional obligations by electing a president of the republic and securing parliament's vote of confidence for the new government, all the requirements for restoring the country's health have fallen due at once. While state institutions and administrations are required to regain their effectiveness and pivotal role in running public utilities and providing services, Lebanon's economic revival remains an essential condition for the country's resurgence and prosperity."
How should his articles be cited?
By the author name Ghazi Mahmoud (غازي محمود), the article title, the outlet that published it and the date of publication. These are given with every article on the articles page.
How can he be reached or invited to an interview or conference?
By email at [email protected].