znog20251231_10k.htm
Table of Contents
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
MARK ONE:
☒ ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the Fiscal Year ended December 31, 2025
OR
☐ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
Commission file number:001-33228
ZION OIL & GAS, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
(Address of Principal Executive Offices) (Zip Code)
(214) 221-4610
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
Securities registered under Section 12 (b) of the Exchange Act: None
Securities registered under Section 12 (g) of the Exchange Act:
Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share OTCQX
(Title of Class) (Name of each exchange on which registered)
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes ☐ No ☒
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes ☐ No ☒
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ☒ No ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). Yes ☒ No ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer ☐ Accelerated filer ☐
Non-accelerated filer ☐ Smaller reporting company ☒
Emerging growth company ☐
If an emerging growth company, date indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management’s assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its report. ☒
If securities are registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act, indicate by check mark whether the financial statements of the registrant included in the filing reflect the correction of an error to previously issued financial statements. ☐
Indicate by check mark whether any of those error corrections are restatements that required a recovery analysis of incentive-based compensation received by any of the registrant’s executive officers during the relevant recovery period pursuant to §240.10D-1(b). ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ☐ No ☒
The aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant as of June 30, 2025, the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed second quarter, was approximately $210,818,000.
The registrant had 1,179,449,952 shares of common stock, par value $0.01, outstanding as of March 13, 2026.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
The Registrant intends to file a definitive proxy statement pursuant to Regulation 14A in connection with its 2026 Annual Meeting of Stockholders within 120 days after the close of the fiscal year covered by this Form 10-K. Portions of such proxy statement are incorporated by reference into Items 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14 of Part III of this report.
Table of Contents
2025 ANNUAL REPORT (SEC FORM 10-K)
INDEX
Securities and Exchange Commission
Item Number and Description
PART I
Item 1 Business 1
Item 1A Risk Factors 12
Item 1B Unresolved Staff Comments 23
Item 1C Cyber Security 23
Item 2 Properties 23
Item 3 Legal Proceedings 24
Item 4 Mine Safety Disclosures 24
PART II
Item 6 Reserved 25
Item 7A Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk 42
Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data 42
Item 9A Controls and Procedures 42
Item 9B Other Information 43
Item 9C Disclosure Regarding Foreign Jurisdictions that Prevent Inspections 43
PART III
Item 10 Directors, Executives Officers and Corporate Governance 44
Item 11 Executive Compensation 44
Item 14 Principal Accountant Fees and Services 44
PART IV
Item 15 Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules 45
i
Table of Contents
FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS
This Annual Report on Form 10-K (herein, “Annual Report”) and the documents included or incorporated by reference in this Annual Report contain statements concerning our expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events or performance and underlying assumptions and other statements that are not historical facts. These statements are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. You generally can identify our forward-looking statements by the words “anticipate,” “believe,” “budgeted,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “forecast,” “goal,” “intend,” “may,” “objective,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “projection,” “scheduled,” “should,” “will” or other similar words. These forward-looking statements include, among others, statements regarding:
● the going concern qualification in our consolidated financial statements;
● our ability to obtain new license areas to continue our exploration program;
● changes in our exploration plans and related budgets;
● anticipated trends in our business;
● our future results of operations;
● our capital expenditure program;
● future market conditions in the oil and gas industry
● the demand for oil and natural gas, both locally in Israel and globally; and
● the impact of fluctuating oil and gas prices on our exploration efforts
ii
Table of Contents
More specifically, our forward-looking statements may include, among others, statements relating to our schedule, business plan, targets, estimates or results of our applications for new exploration rights and future exploration plans, including the number, timing and results of wells, the timing and risk involved in drilling follow-up wells, planned expenditures, prospects budgeted and other future capital expenditures, risk profile of oil and gas exploration, acquisition and interpretation of seismic data (including number, timing and size of projects), planned evaluation of prospects, probability of prospects having oil and natural gas, expected production or reserves, acreage, working capital requirements, hedging activities, the availability of expected sources of liquidity to implement our business strategy, future hiring, future exploration activity, production rates, all and any other statements regarding future operations, consolidated financial results, business plans and cash needs and other statements that are not historical fact.
Such statements involve risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, those relating to the uncertainties inherent in exploratory drilling activities, the volatility of oil and natural gas prices, operating risks of oil and natural gas operations, our dependence on our key personnel, factors that affect our ability to manage our growth and achieve our business strategy, risks relating to our limited operating history, technological changes, our significant capital requirements, the potential impact of government regulations, adverse regulatory determinations, litigation, competition, the uncertainty of reserve information and future net revenue estimates, property acquisition risks, industry partner issues, availability of equipment, weather and other factors detailed herein and in our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”).
We have based our forward-looking statements on our management’s beliefs and assumptions based on information available to our management at the time the statements are made. We caution you that assumptions, beliefs, expectations, intentions and projections about future events may and often do vary materially from actual results. Therefore, we cannot assure you that actual results will not differ materially from those expressed or implied by our forward-looking statements.
Some of the factors that could cause actual results to differ from those expressed or implied in forward-looking statements are described under “Risk Factors” in this Annual Report and in our other periodic reports filed with the SEC. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual outcomes may vary materially from those indicated. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to us or persons acting on our behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by reference to these risks and uncertainties. You should not place undue reliance on our forward-looking statements. Each forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date of the particular statement, and we undertake no duty to update any forward-looking statement.
All references in this Annual Report to the “Company”, “Zion”, “we”, “us”, or “our”, are to Zion Oil and Gas, Inc., a Delaware corporation, and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Zion Drilling, Inc. and Zion Drilling Services, Inc. described below.
iii
Table of Contents
PART I
ITEM 1. BUSINESS
Overview
Zion Oil and Gas, Inc., a Texas corporation, is an oil and gas exploration company with a history of 25 years of oil and gas exploration in Israel. We were incorporated in Florida on April 6, 2000 and reincorporated in Delaware on July 9, 2003. The shareholders of Zion Oil & Gas, Inc. approved the re-domestication of its incorporation to Texas on June 4, 2025. We completed our initial public offering in January 2007. Our common stock, par value $0.01 per share (the “Common Stock”) currently trades on the OTCQX marketplace of OTC Markets, Inc. under the symbol “ZNOG” and our Common Stock warrant under the symbol “ZNOGW”. On January 24, 2020, Zion incorporated a wholly owned subsidiary, Zion Drilling, Inc., as a Delaware corporation, for the purpose of owning a drilling rig, related equipment and spare parts, and on January 31, 2020, Zion incorporated another wholly owned subsidiary, Zion Drilling Services, Inc., a Delaware corporation, to act as the contractor providing such drilling services. When Zion is not using the rig for its own exploration activities, Zion Drilling Services may contract with other operators in Israel to provide drilling services at market rates then in effect. On May 14, 2025, Zion Drilling, Inc. and Zion Drilling Services, Inc. were re-domesticated and converted from Delaware corporations to Texas corporations pursuant to plans of conversion approved unanimously by the directors and shareholders of each corporation. On October 19, 2022, Zion incorporated a wholly owned subsidiary in Israel, Zion Drilling Israel Ltd, for the purpose of owning a drilling rig and related equipment and spare parts. On this date, the entity was created as a placeholder only. A bank account was created in November 2024 and a tax file was created in January 2025. Zion Drilling Israel Ltd did not have any activities during the year ended December 31, 2025.
The New Megiddo License 428 (“NML 428”) was initially awarded on December 3, 2020 for a six-month term and was extended several times before expiring on February 1, 2023. Zion Oil & Gas, Inc. filed an amended application with the Israel Ministry of Energy for a new exploratory license on January 24, 2023 covering the same area as its License No. 428, which expired on February 1, 2023. However, its original application to replace License No. 428 was filed on May 11, 2022, and a revised application was filed on August 29, 2022.
On September 14, 2023, the Israel Ministry of Energy approved a new Megiddo Valleys License 434 (“NMVL 434”or “Exploration License 434”), allowing for oil and gas exploration on approximately 75,000 acres or 302 square kilometers. This Exploration License 434 is valid for three years until September 13, 2026 with four potential 1-year extensions for a total of seven years until September 13, 2030. This NMVL 434 effectively supersedes our previous NML 428.
We continue our exploration focus on the MJ-02 well, as it appears to possess the key geologic ingredients of an active petroleum system with significant exploration potential. As previously announced, Zion is deploying new technologies and stimulation methods for its current re-entry into the MJ-02 well with the objective of potentially unlocking hydrocarbon flows in several identified key zones.
Zion’s rig crew arrived in Israel in February 2025 and completed critical maintenance and preparatory work. The rig, which was safely “warm stacked” in September 2024, underwent necessary checks for maintenance, including fluid changes, lubrication and greasing, and mechanical, electrical, and safety audits to ensure peak functionality. The rig crew drilled out the temporary plug at approximately 1,100 meters and set a permanent plug at the deeper part of the well, allowing for isolation of targeted zones for testing. Perforation and stimulation operations were successfully completed, with gas observed at surface during early flowback.
On June 10, 2025, we completed flowback operations at our Megiddo-Jezreel #1 well (MJ-01), shut the well in and demobilized our crew. The last of our crew left the country just hours before the 12-day war with Iran. We analyzed the initial gas composition data which confirmed that our targeted perforation and stimulation procedures were successful. Gas reached the surface and shows characteristics consistent with a productive reservoir.
An even further delay was created by many of our rig crew members reaching the limit of their work visas. This requires us to reset visas, which is not a simple process, and it adds another layer of delay and complexity. Moreover, the recent changes to visa eligibility have further complicated the process, as Israel has changed their 90-day visa renewals from resetting at the end of the year to resetting six months after expiration. We are working with the Ministry of Interior on this issue. As a side note, the crew had to enter Israel under 90-day visas and not six months visas in order to comply with the labor law requirements in place at the time the operations commenced.
In light of the combination of downhole, logistical, and crew challenges, as well as holidays, and the one-year remembrance of October 7, we temporarily paused active operations during Q4 2024. This was a necessary step to ensure the safety of our personnel and to ensure proper engineering and tools are brought to location to avoid lengthy delays waiting for additional tools should any be required once the job resumes.
Zion’s rig crew arrived in Israel in February 2025 and completed critical maintenance and preparatory work. The rig, which was safely “warm stacked” in September 2024, underwent necessary checks for maintenance, including fluid changes, lubrication and greasing, and mechanical, electrical, and safety audits to ensure peak functionality. The rig crew drilled out the temporary plug at approximately 1,100 meters and set a permanent plug at the deeper part of the well, allowing for isolation of targeted zones for testing. Perforation and stimulation operations were successfully completed, with gas observed at surface during early flowback.
On June 10, 2025, we completed flowback operations at our Megiddo-Jezreel #1 well and have since temporarily shut it in and demobilized our crew. The last of our crew left the country just hours before the 12-day war with Iran. We analyzed the initial gas composition data which confirmed that our targeted perforation and stimulation procedures were successful. Gas reached the surface and shows characteristics consistent with a productive reservoir.
During the last six months of 2025, we engaged in planning and logistics activities for the next phase of operations in Israel. Our technical objective remains unchanged, which is to sidetrack the well and drill a lateral section into the identified target interval to enable multi-stage stimulation across multiple zones. The principal operational refinement is to begin this campaign from the MJ-02 well, located on the same pad as the MJ-01 well, just 7.5 meters away on surface and approximately 300 meters offset at depth. Both wellbores access the same target zone. Starting from MJ-02 allows us to begin in larger casing, use larger-diameter tools, and execute a two-stage drilling plan—providing greater flexibility to manage downhole contingencies and improving our chance of operational success.
Logistics remain challenging in Israel’s onshore market, where most services and equipment must be imported with added time and cost. Despite providers being heavily contracted, we have secured key services such as drilling, mud, and cementing. Recent visa reforms and progress with ministry approvals are also positive steps forward.
Our rig crew arrived in Israel in January 2026 to begin a new phase of operations at both MJ-01 and MJ-02 in Israel. Currently, the team is focusing on routine rig repair and maintenance, including a much-needed upgrade to the generator system, ensuring reliable power for the drilling ahead. Once the rig is serviced and tested, our crew will re-enter MJ-01, complete cleanup of the wellbore, install a seal below the water aquifer zone, and re-establish the mandated water monitoring well as required by the Ministry of Energy and Ministry of Water. Following this work, we will rig down and conduct the mandatory five-year recertification and inspection process to ensure full compliance with International Association of Drilling Contractors ("IADC") and national standards before transitioning to the next stage. After inspection, we will rig up over MJ-02, plug and abandon the lower sections of that wellbore, set the direction, and begin the planned horizontal drilling operation into the target reservoir zone.
1
Table of Contents
At present, we have no revenues or operating income. Our ability to generate future revenues and operating cash flow will depend on the successful exploration and exploitation of our current and any future petroleum rights or the acquisition of oil and/or gas producing properties, and the volume and timing of such production. In addition, even if we are successful in producing oil and gas in commercial quantities, our results will depend upon commodity prices for oil and gas, as well as operating expenses including taxes and royalties.
Our executive offices are located at 12222 Merit Drive, Suite 1450, Dallas, Texas 75251, and our telephone number is (214) 221-4610. Our branch office’s address in Israel is 9 Halamish Street, North Industrial Park, Caesarea 3088900, and the telephone number is +972-4-623-8500. Our website address is: www.zionoil.com.
Company Background
In 1983, during a visit to Israel, John M. Brown (our Founder and Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors) became inspired and dedicated to finding oil and gas in Israel. During the next 17 years he made several trips each year to Israel, hired oil and gas consultants in Israel and Texas, met with Israeli government officials, made direct investments with local exploration companies, and assisted Israeli exploration companies in raising money for oil and gas exploration in Israel. This activity led Mr. Brown to form Zion Oil & Gas, Inc. in April 2000, in order to receive the award of a small onshore petroleum license from the Israeli government.
Zion’s vision, as guided by John Brown, of finding oil and/or natural gas in Israel, is Biblically inspired. The vision is based, in part, on biblical references alluding to the presence of oil and/or natural gas in territories within the State of Israel that were formerly within certain ancient biblical tribal areas. While John Brown provides the broad vision and goals for our company, the actions taken by the Zion Board of Directors and management team as it actively explores for oil and gas in Israel, are based on modern science and good business practice. Zion’s oil and gas exploration activities are supported by appropriate geological, geophysical and other science-based studies and surveys typically carried out by companies engaged in oil and gas exploration activities.
Upon the award of our first petroleum right in May 2000, the Israeli government provided us access to most of its data with respect to previous exploration in the area, including geologic reports, seismic records and profiles, drilling reports, well files, gravity surveys, geochemical surveys and regional maps. We also gathered information concerning prior and ongoing geological, geophysical and drilling activity relevant to our planned activities from a variety of publicly accessible sources. Subsequently, we have acquired additional studies on our own such as seismic and other geophysical and geological surveys.
2
Table of Contents
ZION’S NEW MEGIDDO VALLEYS 434 LICENSE AREA
The NML 428 was initially awarded on December 3, 2020 for a six-month term and was extended several times before expiring on February 1, 2023. Zion Oil & Gas, Inc. filed an amended application with the Israel Ministry of Energy for a new exploratory license on January 24, 2023 covering the same area as its NML 428, which expired on February 1, 2023. However, its original application to replace License NML 428 was filed on May 11, 2022, and a revised application was filed on August 29, 2022.
On September 14, 2023, the Israel Ministry of Energy approved a new Megiddo Valleys License 434 (“NMVL 434”), allowing for oil and gas exploration on approximately 75,000 acres or 302 square kilometers. NMVL 434 is valid for three years until September 13, 2026 with four potential 1-year extensions for a total of seven years until September 13, 2030. This NMVL 434 effectively supersedes our previous NML 428.
We continue our exploration focus here based on our studies as it appears to possess the key geologic ingredients of an active petroleum system with significant exploration potential. As previously announced, Zion is deploying new technologies and stimulation methods for its current re-entry into the MJ-02 well with the objective of potentially unlocking hydrocarbon flows in several identified key zones.
Zion’s rig crew arrived in Israel in February 2025 and completed critical maintenance and preparatory work. The rig, which was safely “warm stacked” in September 2024, underwent necessary checks for maintenance, including fluid changes, lubrication and greasing, and mechanical, electrical, and safety audits to ensure peak functionality. The rig crew drilled out the temporary plug at approximately 1,100 meters and set a permanent plug at the deeper part of the well, allowing for isolation of targeted zones for testing. Perforation and stimulation operations were successfully completed, with gas observed at surface during early flowback.
On June 10, 2025, we completed flowback operations at our MJ-01 well, shut the well in and demobilized our crew. The last of our crew left the country just hours before the 12-day war with Iran. We analyzed the initial gas composition data which confirmed that our targeted perforation and stimulation procedures were successful. Gas reached the surface and shows characteristics consistent with a productive reservoir.
An even further delay was created by many of our rig crew members reaching the limit of their work visas. This requires us to reset visas, which is not a simple process, and it adds another layer of delay and complexity. Moreover, the recent changes to visa eligibility have further complicated the process, as Israel has changed their 90-day visa renewals from resetting at the end of the year to resetting six months after expiration. We are working with the Ministry of Interior on this issue. As a side note, the crew had to enter Israel under 90-day visas and not six months visas in order to comply with the labor law requirements in place at the time the operations commenced.
In light of the combination of downhole, logistical, and crew challenges, as well as holidays, and the one-year remembrance of October 7, we temporarily paused active operations during Q4 2024. This was a necessary step to ensure the safety of our personnel and to ensure proper engineering and tools are brought to location to avoid lengthy delays waiting for additional tools should any be required once the job resumes.
Zion’s rig crew arrived in Israel in February 2025 and completed critical maintenance and preparatory work. The rig, which was safely “warm stacked” in September 2024, underwent necessary checks for maintenance, including fluid changes, lubrication and greasing, and mechanical, electrical, and safety audits to ensure peak functionality. The rig crew drilled out the temporary plug at approximately 1,100 meters and set a permanent plug at the deeper part of the well, allowing for isolation of targeted zones for testing. Perforation and stimulation operations were successfully completed, with gas observed at surface during early flowback.
On June 10, 2025, we completed flowback operations at our Megiddo-Jezreel #1 well and have since temporarily shut it in and demobilized our crew. The last of our crew left the country just hours before the 12-day war with Iran. We analyzed the initial gas composition data which confirmed that our targeted perforation and stimulation procedures were successful. Gas reached the surface and shows characteristics consistent with a productive reservoir.
During the last six months of 2025, we engaged in planning and logistics activities for the next phase of operations in Israel. Our technical objective remains unchanged, which is to sidetrack the well and drill a lateral section into the identified target interval to enable multi-stage stimulation across multiple zones. The principal operational refinement is to begin this campaign from the MJ-02 well, located on the same pad as the MJ-01 well, just 7.5 meters away on surface and approximately 300 meters offset at depth. Both wellbores access the same target zone. Starting from MJ-02 allows us to begin in larger casing, use larger-diameter tools, and execute a two-stage drilling plan—providing greater flexibility to manage downhole contingencies and improving our chance of operational success.
Logistics remain challenging in Israel’s onshore market, where most services and equipment must be imported with added time and cost. Despite providers being heavily contracted, we have secured key services such as drilling, mud, and cementing. Recent visa reforms and progress with ministry approvals are also positive steps forward.
Our rig crew arrived in Israel in January 2026 to begin a new phase of operations at both MJ-01 and MJ-02 in Israel. Currently, the team is focusing on routine rig repair and maintenance, including a much-needed upgrade to the generator system, ensuring reliable power for the drilling ahead. Once the rig is serviced and tested, our crew will re-enter MJ-01, complete cleanup of the wellbore, install a seal below the water aquifer zone, and re-establish the mandated water monitoring well as required by the Ministry of Energy and Ministry of Water. Following this work, we will rig down and conduct the mandatory five-year recertification and inspection process to ensure full compliance with IADC and national standards before transitioning to the next stage. After inspection, we will rig up over MJ-02, plug and abandon the lower sections of that wellbore, set the direction, and begin the planned horizontal drilling operation into the target reservoir zone.
Zion’s ability to fully undertake all of these aforementioned activities is subject to its raising the needed capital from its continuing offerings, of which no assurance can be provided.
ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR
The nation of Israel declared war on Hamas following the October 7, 2023 invasion by Hamas into many southern Israeli communities, killing and injuring thousands and taking of over 200 Israeli hostages into Gaza. Israel formed a war time emergency government with its primary focus on defending its homeland. As part of the war effort, Israel activated a large number of reservists. Our geologist in Israel was called into service for a month or two in late 2023. In 2024, he was called up again to serve for a period of months. He has since returned back to work. As a result of his absence, the workload was handled by our US based geologist. We have been able to keep up with the geological workload without any issues.
Our operations in Israel take place at the wellsite in north central Israel, away from the primary location of the war in southern Israel. Our drilling rig, pad site, employees and service providers were safe throughout 2025 and through the date of this filing in March 2026.
On or about January 19, 2025, Israel and Hamas agreed to a ceasefire. After that date, various agreements have been reached between Israel and Hamas regarding the release of Israeli hostages and the simultaneous release of Hamas prisoners while maintaining a ceasefire. However, hostilities began again pending release of the remaining Israeli hostages.
On or around October 13, 2025, following more than two years after the initial invasion by Hamas, another ceasefire was negotiated between Israel and Hamas. The ceasefire deal contains three phases and the first phase involves the release of all living and dead Israeli hostages held by Hamas, along with the release of approximately 1,950 Palestinian prisoners being held in Israel prisons. All of the 20 living hostages were released and the remains of the dead hostages have been released to Israeli families. The next phase (phase 2) of the ceasefire deal is underway and involves the disarmament of Hamas.
There is uncertainty as to the degree of stability that will be seen in the Gaza strip and the wider impact on hostilities in the region.
ISRAEL-HEZBOLLAH WAR
On November 27, 2024, Israel and Hezbollah signed a ceasefire agreement.
In early March 2026, Hezbollah joined the war against Israel by launching daily attacks, primarily missiles into northern Israel. Israel responded by launching its own missiles into Beirut and southern Lebanon and moving ground forces into southern Lebanon.
ISRAEL-UNITED STATES-IRAN WAR
On June 13, 2025, Israel launched Operation Rising Lion by surprise attacks on key military and nuclear facilities in Iran. This was a targeted operation to roll back the Iranian threat to Israel’s very survival. In the opening hours of the war, Israeli air force assassinated some of Iran's prominent military leaders and nuclear scientists, and damaged or destroyed Iran's air defenses and some of its nuclear and military facilities. Israel launched hundreds of airstrikes throughout the war. Iran retaliated with waves of missile and drone strikes against Israeli cities and military sites; over 550 ballistic missiles and more than 1,000 explosive drones were launched by Iran during the war. The Iran-allied Houthis in Yemen also fired several missiles at Israel. On the ninth day of the war the United States bombed three Iranian nuclear sites. On June 24, 2025, Israel and Iran agreed to a ceasefire.
On February 28, 2026, Israel and the United States jointly attacked Iran. The attacks took the form of missile strikes throughout Iran targeting regime leadership, nuclear sites, ballistic missile sites and other military infrastructure. Iran’s former supreme leader. Ali Khomenei was killed on this day. The daily attacks are continuing as of the date of this filing. Furthermore, Iran has been firing missiles and drones on approximately fifteen other countries, including, but not limited to, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Cypress, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, United Arab Emirates and Turkey.
3
Table of Contents
Map 1. Zion’s New Megiddo Valleys 434 License as of December 31, 2025.
4
Table of Contents
Zion’s Former Joseph License
Zion has plugged all of its exploratory wells on its former Joseph License area, and the reserve pits have been evacuated, but acknowledges its obligation to complete the abandonment of these well sites in accordance with guidance from the Energy Ministry, Environmental Ministry and local officials (See note 9B and 9C).
I-35 Drilling Rig & Associated Equipment
I-35 Rig Other
Drilling Spare Drilling
Rig Parts Assets Total
US$ US$ US$ US$
Gross Assets: thousands thousands thousands thousands
Asset Disposals for Self-Consumption - (52 ) - (52 )
Accumulated Depreciation:
I-35 Rig Other
Drilling Spare Drilling
Rig Parts Assets Total
US$ US$ US$ US$
Gross Assets: thousands thousands thousands thousands
Asset Disposals - - (98 ) (98 )
Asset Disposals for Self-Consumption - (39 ) - (39 )
Accumulated Depreciation:
Exploration Expenditures
The following table summarizes the amounts we expended on our exploration efforts between 2024 and 2025:
US$ US$
I-35 Drilling Rig & Associated Equipment 1,143 -
New Megiddo Valleys License 434:
Exploratory drilling operations 4,212 2,984
Equipment and inventory purchases 637 1,145
Environmental, geological & geophysical operations 61 72
Location construction and maintenance 1,081 844
5
Table of Contents
Employees & Contractors
As of December 31, 2025, we had 20 employees and contractors of whom all but one are on a full-time basis. Of the 20 total headcount, 14 work out of our Dallas office and 6 work out of the Caesarea, Israel office. None of our current employees or contractors are subject to any collective bargaining agreements, and there have been no strikes.
We regularly utilize independent consultants and contractors to perform various professional services, particularly for services connected to drilling operations, such as specialized drilling, health and safety, engineering, logging, cementing and well-testing.
Competition and Markets
The oil and gas exploration industry in Israel currently consists of a number of exploration companies. These include relatively small local or foreign companies (such as Zion Oil & Gas, Givot Olam, and Globe Exploration), as well as larger consortia of local Israeli and foreign participants (Chevron Corporation/Delek Group Ltd.). Most groups are engaged primarily in offshore activities, which is not an area in which we are currently active. Israeli law conveys an exclusive exploration right to license holders that prevents any additional companies from competing in that license area.
Historically, Israel (particularly onshore) has not been an area of interest for international integrated or large or mid-size independent oil and gas exploration companies for various reasons, one of which is likely geopolitical. Since the announcement of the Tamar and Leviathan discoveries during 2009 and 2010, this situation has changed somewhat. Limited availability in Israel of oil field service companies, equipment and personnel continues to present obstacles, especially during periods of decreased activity and risk aversion in the current market. We attempt to enhance our position by developing and maintaining good professional relations with oil field service providers and by demonstrating a high level of credibility in making and meeting commercial commitments.
The oil and gas industry is cyclical, and from time to time there is a shortage of drilling rigs, equipment, supplies and qualified personnel. During these periods, the costs and delivery times of rigs, equipment and supplies can vary greatly. If the unavailability or high cost of drilling and completion rigs, equipment, supplies or qualified personnel was particularly severe in the areas where we operate, we could be materially and adversely affected. We will continue to monitor the market and build service provider relationships in order to help mitigate concentration risk.
If any exploratory well that we drill is commercially productive, we would install the appropriate production equipment which includes, among other items, oil and gas separation facilities and storage tanks. Under the terms of the Petroleum Law, we may be required by the Minister of Energy and Water Resources to offer first refusal for any oil and gas discovered to Israeli domestic purchasers at market prices.
Since Israel imports almost all of its crude oil needs and the market for crude oil in Israel is limited to two local oil refineries, no special marketing strategy needs to be adopted initially with regard to any oil that we may ultimately discover. We believe that we would have a ready local market for our oil at market prices in addition to having the option of exporting to the international market, if any of our future exploratory wells are commercially productive.
Israel’s Petroleum Law
Our business in Israel is subject to regulation by the State of Israel under the Petroleum Law. The administration and implementation of the Petroleum Law are vested in the Minister of Energy (“Energy Minister”), the Petroleum Commissioner and an advisory council. The following discussion includes a brief summary of certain provisions of the Petroleum Law currently in effect. This review is not complete, and it should not be relied on as a definitive restatement of the law related to petroleum exploration and production activities in Israel.
Petroleum resources are owned by the State of Israel, regardless of whether they are located on state lands or the offshore continental shelf. No person is allowed to explore for or produce petroleum without being granted a specific right under the Petroleum Law. Israeli law provides for three types of rights, two relevant to the exploration stage and the third for the production stage.
6
Table of Contents
Preliminary permit. The “preliminary permit” allows a prospector to conduct preliminary investigations, such as field geology, airborne magnetometer surveys and seismic data acquisition, but does not allow test drilling. It may be granted for a period not to exceed 18 months. The holder of a preliminary permit is entitled to request a priority right on the permit area, which, if granted, prevents an award of petroleum rights on the permit area to any other party. There are no restrictions as to size of the permit area or to the number of permits that may be held by one prospector. However, Israeli policy is to award an area no larger than that for which the applicant has a reasonable plan of operation and has shown evidence of the necessary financial resources to execute the plan.
License. The next level of petroleum right is the “license,” bestowing an exclusive right for further exploration work and requiring the drilling of one or more test wells. The initial term of a license is up to three years, and it may be extended for up to an additional four years (in one-year increments). In the event of a Commercial Discovery approved by the Petroleum Commissioner, the license may be extended for an additional two years. A license area may not exceed 400,000 dunams (approximately 98,842 acres). One dunam is equal to 1,000 square meters (approximately 0.24711 of an acre). No one entity may hold more than 12 licenses or hold more than a total of four million dunam in aggregate license area.
Production lease. Upon approval by the Petroleum Commissioner, a licensee has a statutory “right” to receive a production “lease.” The initial lease term is 30 years, extendable for an additional 20 years (up to a maximum period of 50 years). A lease confers upon the lessee the exclusive right to explore for and produce petroleum in the lease area and requires the lessee to produce petroleum in commercial quantities (and pursue test and development drilling). The lessee is entitled to transport and market the petroleum produced, subject, however, to the right of the government to require the lessee to supply local needs first, at market price.
Petroleum rights fees. The holders of licenses and leases are required to pay fees to the government of Israel to maintain the rights. The fees vary according to the nature of the right, the size and location (onshore or offshore) of the right, acreage subject to the right and, in the case of a license, the period during which the license has been maintained.
Requirements and entitlements of holders of petroleum rights. The holder of a petroleum right (license or lease) is required to conduct its operations in accordance with a work program set as part of the petroleum right, with due diligence and in accordance with the accepted practice in the petroleum industry. The holder is required to submit progress and final reports; provided, however, the information disclosed in such reports remains confidential for as long as the holder owns a petroleum right on the area concerned.
If the holder of a petroleum right does not comply with the work program provided by the terms of the right, the Petroleum Commissioner may issue a notice requiring the holder to cure the default within 60 days of the giving of the notice, together with a warning that failure to comply within the 60-day cure period may entail cancellation of the right. If the petroleum right is cancelled following such notice, the holder of the right may, within 30 days of the date of notice of the Petroleum Commissioner’s decision, appeal such cancellation to the Energy Minister. No petroleum right shall be cancelled until the Energy Minister has ruled on the appeal.
We are obligated, according to the Petroleum Law, to pay royalties to the Government of Israel on the gross production of oil and gas from the oil and gas properties of Zion located in Israel (excluding those reserves serving to operate the wells and related equipment and facilities). The royalty rate stated in the Petroleum Law is 12.5% of the produced reserves. At December 31, 2025 and 2024, the Company did not have any outstanding obligation with respect to royalty payments, since it is in the development stage and, to this date, no proved reserves have been found.
7
Table of Contents
In March 2011, the Israeli parliament enacted the Petroleum Profits Taxation Law, 2011, which imposes a new levy on oil and gas production. Under the new tax regime, the Israeli Government repealed the percentage depletion deduction and imposed a levy at an initial rate of 20% on profits from oil and gas which will gradually rise to 45.52% for 2016 onwards, depending on the levy coefficient (the R-Factor). The R-Factor refers to the percentage of the amount invested in the exploration, the development and the establishment of the project, so that the 20% rate will be imposed only after a recovery of 150% of the amount invested (R-Factor of 1.5) and will range linearly up to 45.52% after a recovery of 230% of the amount invested (R-Factor of 2.3). For purposes of the levy rate calculation, the minimal gas sale price that will be accepted by the State is the bi-annual average local price. The present 12.5% royalty imposed on oil revenues remains unchanged.
The grant of a petroleum right does not automatically entitle its holder to enter upon the land to which the right applies or to carry out exploration and production work thereon. Entry requires the consent of the private or public holders of the surface rights and of other public regulatory bodies (e.g. planning and building authorities, Nature Reserves Authority, municipal and security authorities, etc.). The holder of a petroleum right may request the government to acquire, on its behalf, land needed for petroleum purposes. The petroleum right holder is required to obtain all other necessary approvals.
Petroleum Taxation. Our activities in Israel will be subject to taxation both in Israel and in the United States. Under the U.S. Internal Revenue Code, we will be entitled to claim either a deduction or a foreign tax credit with respect to Israeli income taxes paid or incurred on our Israeli source oil and gas income. As a general rule, we anticipate that it will be more advantageous for us to claim a credit rather than a deduction for applicable Israeli income taxes on our U.S tax return. A tax treaty exists between the U.S. and Israel that would provide opportunity to use the tax credit.
Exploration and development expenses. Under current US and Israeli tax laws, exploration and development expenses incurred by a holder of a petroleum right can, at the option of such holder, either be expensed in the year incurred or capitalized and expensed (or amortized) over a period of years. Most of our expenses to date have been expensed for both U.S. and Israeli income tax purposes.
Corporate tax. Under current Israeli tax laws, whether a company is registered in Israel or is a foreign company operating in Israel through a branch, it is subject to Israeli Companies Tax on its taxable income (including capital gains) from Israeli sources at a flat rate of 23%, effective January 1, 2019.
Import duties. Insofar as similar items are not available in Israel, the Petroleum Law provides that the owner of a petroleum right may import into Israel, free of most customs, purchase taxes and other import duties, all machinery, equipment, installations, fuel, structures, transport facilities, etc. (apart from consumer goods and private cars and similar vehicles) that are required for the petroleum exploration and production purposes, subject to the requirement that security be provided to ensure that the equipment is exported out of Israel within the agreed upon time frame.
Israeli Energy Related Regulations
Our operations are subject to legal and regulatory oversight by energy-related ministries or other agencies of Israel, each having jurisdiction over certain relevant energy or hydrocarbons laws.
The Onshore Petroleum Exploration Permitting Process in Israel
The permitting process in Israel with respect to petroleum exploration continues to undergo significant modification, the result of which is to considerably increase the complexity, time period, and expenditures needed to obtain the necessary permits to undertake exploratory drilling once a drilling prospect has been identified. Applications for new exploration licenses need to comply with more demanding requirements relating to a license applicant’s financial capability, experience and access to experienced personnel. Various guidelines have been published in Israel by the State of Israel’s Petroleum Commissioner and Energy and Environmental Ministries since 2012 as it pertains to oil and gas activities. Mention of these guidelines was included in previous Zion Oil & Gas filings.
8
Table of Contents
On June 2, 2020, the Energy Ministry issued a guidance document titled “Commissioner for Petroleum Affairs Guidelines: Extraordinary Incidences Report.” These guidelines describe the reporting procedure regarding incidences that are out of the ordinary during pre-drilling, drilling and production activities including incidences that cause bodily injury or damage to property or environment or incidences that are a cause of delay or cessation of drilling activities.
The Company believes that these new regulations are likely to result in an increase in the expenditures associated with obtaining new exploration rights and drilling new wells. The Company expects that an additional financial burden could occur as a result of requiring cash reserves that could otherwise be used for operational purposes. In addition, these new regulations are likely to continue to increase the time needed to obtain all of the necessary authorizations and approvals to drill and production test exploration wells.
Environmental&Safety / Planning & Building
Oil and gas drilling operations could potentially harm the environment if there are polluting spills caused by the loss of well control. The Petroleum Law and regulations provide that the conduct of petroleum exploration and drilling operations be pursued in compliance with “good oil field practices” and that measures of due care be taken to avoid seepage of oil, gas and well fluids into the ground and from one geologic formation to another. The Petroleum Law and regulations also require that, upon the abandonment of a well, it be adequately plugged and marked. Recently, as a condition for issuing the required permit for the construction of a drilling site, the planning commissions have required the submission of a site remediation plan, subject to approval of the environmental authorities. Our operations are also subject to claims for personal injury and property damage caused by the release of chemicals or petroleum substances by us or others in connection with the conduct of petroleum operations on our behalf. Various guidelines have been published in Israel by the State of Israel’s Petroleum Commissioner and Energy and Environmental Ministries since 2012 as it pertains to oil and gas activities. Mention of these guidelines was included in previous Zion Oil & Gas filings.
We do not know and cannot predict whether any new legislation in this area will be enacted and, if so, in what form and which of its provisions, if any, will relate to and affect our activities, how and to what extent or what impact, if any, it might have on our financial statements. There are no known proceedings instituted by governmental authorities, pending or known to be contemplated against us under any environmental laws. We are not aware of any events of noncompliance in our operations in connection with any environmental laws or regulations. However, we cannot predict whether any new or amended environmental laws or regulations introduced in the future will have a material adverse effect on our future business.
The Company believes that these new and/or revised regulations will significantly increase the complexity, time, and expenditures associated with obtaining new exploration rights, drilling, and plugging/abandoning new wells, coupled with the heavy financial burden of “locking away” significant amounts of cash that could otherwise be used for operational purposes.
Political Climate
We are directly influenced by the political, economic and military conditions affecting Israel. Specifically, we could be adversely affected by:
● a full or partial mobilization of the reserve forces of the Israeli army; and
● a significant downturn in the economic or financial condition of Israel.
9
Table of Contents
Since the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, a number of armed conflicts have taken place between Israel and its Arab neighbors, and a state of hostility, varying from time to time in intensity and degree, has led to security and economic problems for Israel. Any ongoing or future violence between Israel and the Palestinians, armed conflicts, terrorist activities, tension along Israel’s borders, or political instability in the region could possibly disrupt international trading activities in Israel and may materially and negatively affect our business conditions and could harm our prospects and business.
Civil unrest could spread throughout the region or grow in intensity, leading to more regime changes resulting in governments that are hostile to the United States and Israel, civil wars, or regional conflict. With ongoing operations by Iran, Syria, Russia, the U.S. and other countries in areas in close proximity to Israel, there is an increased risk of deliberate and/or inadvertent mishaps that could give rise to grave military and political consequences.
The nation of Israel declared war on Hamas following the October 7, 2023 invasion by Hamas into many southern Israeli communities, killing and injuring thousands and taking of over 200 Israeli hostages into Gaza. Israel formed a war time emergency government with its primary focus on defending its homeland. As part of the war effort, Israel enlisted a large number of reservists. One geologist in our Israel office was called into service for a month or two in late 2023. In 2024 and 2025, he was called up again to serve for a period of months.
Our operations in Israel take place at the wellsite in north central Israel, away from the primary location of the war in southern Israel. Our drilling rig, pad site, employees and service providers were safe throughout 2024, and 2025.
On or about January 19, 2025, Israel and Hamas agreed to a ceasefire. After that date, various agreements have been reached between Israel and Hamas regarding the release of Israeli hostages and the simultaneous release of Hamas prisoners while maintaining a ceasefire. However, hostilities began again pending release of the remaining Israeli hostages.
On or around October 13, 2025, following more than two years after the initial invasion by Hamas, a ceasefire was negotiated between Israel and Hamas. The ceasefire deal contains three phases and the first phase involves the release of all living and dead Israeli hostages held by Hamas, along with the release of approximately 1,950 Palestinian prisoners being held in Israel prisons. All of the 20 living hostages were released and all of the remains of the dead hostages have been released to Israeli families. The next phase (phase 2) of the ceasefire deal is underway and involves the disarmament of Hamas.
On November 27, 2024, Israel and Hezbollah signed a ceasefire agreement.
In early March 2026, Hezbollah joined the war against Israel by launching daily attacks, primarily missiles into northern Israel. Israel responded by launching its own missiles into Beirut and southern Lebanon and moving ground forces into southern Lebanon.
On June 13, 2025, Israel launched Operation Rising Lion by surprise attacks on key military and nuclear facilities in Iran. This was a targeted operation to roll back the Iranian threat to Israel’s very survival. In the opening hours of the war, Israeli air force assassinated some of Iran's prominent military leaders and nuclear scientists, and damaged or destroyed Iran's air defenses and some of its nuclear and military facilities. Israel launched hundreds of airstrikes throughout the war. Iran retaliated with waves of missile and drone strikes against Israeli cities and military sites; over 550 ballistic missiles and more than 1,000 explosive drones were launched by Iran during the war. The Iran-allied Houthis in Yemen also fired several missiles at Israel. On the ninth day of the war the United States bombed three Iranian nuclear sites. On June 24, 2025, Israel and Iran agreed to a ceasefire.
As of the date of this report, both sides are holding to its terms, but the re-occurrence of subsequent hostilities is possible.
We cannot predict the effect, if any, on our business caused by renewed hostilities between Israel and its neighbors or any other changes in the political climate in the area.
Foundations
If we are successful in finding and producing commercial quantities of hydrocarbons in Israel, 6% of our gross revenues from production will go to fund two charitable foundations that we established with the purpose of donating to charities in Israel, the U.S. and elsewhere in the world.
For charitable activities concerning Israel, the Bnei Joseph Foundation (R.A.) was established. On November 11, 2008, both the Articles of Association and Incorporation Certificate were certified by the Registrar of Amutot (i.e. Charitable Foundations) in Israel.
For the U.S. and worldwide charitable activities, the Abraham Foundation in Geneva, Switzerland was established. On June 20, 2008, the Articles of Incorporation were executed and filed by the Swiss Notary in the Commercial Registrar in Geneva. On June 23, 2008, the initial organizational meeting of the founding members was convened in Israel. Regulations for the Organization of the Abraham Foundation, signed by the founding members, were then filed with the Registrar. On November 19, 2008, the Swiss Confederation approved the Foundation as an international foundation under the supervision of the federal government. On December 8, 2008, the Republic of Geneva and the Federal government of Switzerland issued a tax ruling providing complete tax exemption for the Foundation.
On February 5, 2014, the Company submitted applications to the Petroleum Commissioner, requesting royalty interest transfers from the Megiddo-Jezreel License 401 of 3% overriding royalties to the Bnei Joseph Amutot and the Abraham Foundation, respectively. On April 8, 2014, the transfers were approved by the Petroleum Commissioner and duly registered.
On January 14, 2021, the Company submitted applications to the Energy Ministry, Natural Resources Administration, requesting royalty interest transfers from the New Megiddo License 428 of 3% overriding royalties to each of the Bnei Joseph Amutot and the Abraham Foundation, respectively. On March 1, 2021, the Energy Ministry approved both transfers.
The Company has been submitting to the Commissioner all royalty requests for both foundations and registering the overriding royalties with every new license.
10
Table of Contents
Subsidiaries
On January 24, 2020, Zion incorporated a wholly owned subsidiary, Zion Drilling, Inc., a Delaware corporation, for the purpose of owning a drilling rig and related equipment and spare parts, and on January 31, 2020, Zion incorporated another wholly owned subsidiary, Zion Drilling Services, Inc., a Delaware corporation, to act as the contractor providing such drilling services. When Zion is not using the rig for its own exploration activities, Zion Drilling Services may contract with other operators in Israel to provide drilling services at market rates then in effect. On May 14, 2025, Zion Drilling, Inc. and Zion Drilling Services, Inc. were re-domesticated and converted from Delaware corporations to Texas corporations pursuant to plans of conversion approved unanimously by the directors and shareholders of each corporation.
On October 19, 2022, Zion incorporated a wholly owned subsidiary in Israel, Zion Drilling Israel Ltd, for the purpose of owning a drilling rig and related equipment and spare parts. On this date, the entity was created as a placeholder only. A bank account was created in November 2024 and a tax file was created in January 2025.
Zion has the trademark “ZION DRILLING” filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Zion has the trademark filed with the World Intellectual Property Organization in Geneva, Switzerland, pursuant to the Madrid Agreement and Protocol. In addition, Zion has the trademark filed with the Israeli Trademark Office in Israel. Zion Drilling Israel Ltd did not have any activities during the year ended December 31, 2025.
Available Information
Zion’s internet website address is “www.zionoil.com.” We make available, free of charge, on our website under “SEC Reports,” our annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, Forms 3, 4 and 5 filed on behalf of directors and executive officers and amendments to those reports, as soon as reasonably practicable after providing the SEC such reports.
Our Corporate Governance Policy, the charters of the Audit Committee, the Compensation Committee and the Nominating and Governance Committee, and the Code of Ethics for directors, officers, employees and financial officers are also available on our website under “Corporate Governance” and in print to any stockholder who provides a written request to the Corporate Secretary at Zion Oil & Gas, Inc., 12222 Merit Drive, Suite 1450, Dallas, Texas 75251, Attn: Corporate Secretary.
We file annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, proxy statements and other documents with the SEC under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The public may read and copy any materials that we file with the SEC at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20549. The public may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. Also, the SEC maintains an internet website that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers, including Zion Oil & Gas, Inc., that file electronically with the SEC. The public can obtain any document we file with the SEC at www.sec.gov. Information contained on or connected to our website is not incorporated by reference into this Form 10-K and should not be considered part of this report or any other filing that we make with the SEC.
11
Table of Contents
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
In evaluating our company, the risk factors described below should be considered carefully. The occurrence of one or more of these events could significantly and adversely affect our business, prospects, financial condition and results of operations.
Risks Associated with our Company
We are a company with no current source of revenue. Our ability to continue in business depends upon our continued ability to obtain significant financing from external sources and the ultimate success of our petroleum exploration efforts in onshore Israel, none of which can be assured.
We were incorporated in April 2000, and we have incurred negative cash flows from our operations, and presently all exploration activities and overhead expenses are financed solely by way of the issue and sale of equity securities or debt instruments. The recoverability of the costs we have incurred to date is uncertain and is dependent upon achieving commercial production or sale, none of which can be assured. Our operations are subject to all of the risks inherent in exploration companies with no revenues or operating income. Our potential for success must be considered in light of the problems, expenses, difficulties, complications and delays frequently encountered in connection with a new business, especially the oil and gas exploration business, and in particular the deep, wildcat exploratory wells in which we are engaged in Israel. We cannot warrant or provide any assurance that our business objectives will be accomplished.
Our ability to continue in business depends upon our continued ability to obtain the necessary financing from external sources to undertake further exploration and development activities and generate profitable operations from oil and natural gas interests in the future. We incurred net losses of $7,627,000 for the year ended December 31, 2025, and $7,343,000 for the year ended December 31, 2024. The audited consolidated financial statements have contained a statement by the auditors that raises substantial doubt about us being able to continue as a “going concern.”
We expect to incur substantial expenditures in our exploration and development programs. Our existing cash balances will not be sufficient to satisfy our exploration and development plans going forward. We are considering various alternatives to remedy any future shortfall in capital. We may deem it necessary to raise capital through equity markets, debt markets or other financing arrangements, including participation arrangements that may be available. Because of the current absence of any oil and natural gas reserves and revenues in our license areas, there can be no assurance that our capital will be available on commercially acceptable terms (or at all) and if it is not, we may be forced to substantially curtail or cease exploration expenditures which could lead to our inability to meet all of our commitments.
On March 13, 2014, Zion filed a registration statement on Form S-3 that was part of a replacement registration statement that was filed with the SEC using a “shelf” registration process. The registration statement was declared effective by the SEC on March 31, 2014. On February 23, 2017, the Company filed a Form S-3 with the SEC (Registration No. 333-216191) as a replacement for the Form S-3 (Registration No. 333-193336), for which the three-year period ended March 31, 2017, along with the base Prospectus and Supplemental Prospectus. The Form S-3, as amended, and the new base Prospectus became effective on March 10, 2017, along with the Prospectus Supplement that was filed and became effective on March 10, 2017. The Prospectus Supplement under Registration No. 333-216191 describes the terms of the Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan (“DSPP” or the "Plan") and replaces the prior Prospectus Supplement, as amended, under the prior Registration No. 333-193336.
Currently, we are substantially reliant on the proceeds of sales of our common stock under the Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan. During the past two completed fiscal years, we have financed our operations primarily from the proceeds of sales of our stock under the Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan. For the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024, we raised approximately $21,479,000 and $16,257,000, respectively, under the Plan. Of the amounts raised, approximately 60% of the amounts raised in 2025 were attributable to two participants and 57% of the amounts raised in 2024 were attributable to one participant. The cessation of funding from these participants may result in adverse consequences to our business, such as a delay in our exploration and testing efforts, until we locate alternate sources for this funding.
12
Table of Contents
Our independent registered public accounting firm has included an explanatory paragraph relating to our ability to continue as a going concern in its report on our audited consolidated financial statements. Our audited consolidated financial statements at December 31, 2025 and 2024 and for the years then ended were prepared assuming that we will continue as a going concern.
Such an opinion could materially limit our ability to raise additional funds through the issuance of new debt or equity securities or otherwise. Our ability to continue as a going concern is contingent upon, among other factors, the sale of the shares of our common stock or obtaining alternate financing. We cannot provide any assurance that we will be able to raise additional capital.
We may not be able to maintain the listing of our common stock on the OTCQX Market, which could adversely affect our liquidity and the trading volume and market price of our common stock, and decrease your investment.
Effective January 1, 2024, our common stock began trading on the OTCQB Market. The maintenance requirements for listing are to maintain a minimum bid price of $0.01 per share as of the close of business for at least one of every 30 consecutive calendar days and market capitalization of at least $2 million for at least one of every 30 consecutive calendar days. In the event that the Company’s bid price or the market capitalization falls below the minimum criteria, a cure period of 90 calendar days to regain compliance shall begin, during which time the applicable criteria must be met for 10 consecutive trading days. During January 2026, the Company applied for trading on the OTCQX Market (the highest market withing the OTC) due to the rising of its ZNOG stock price during December and January. On February 5, the Company’s application was granted and its ZNOG began trading on the OTCQX Market.
We were involved in an extensive government investigation by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, the results of which could have had a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial condition and business.
On June 21, 2018, the Fort Worth Regional Office of the SEC informed Zion that it was conducting a formal, non-public investigation and asked that we provide certain information and documents in connection with its investigation. Since that date, we fully cooperated with the SEC and provided all requested information and documents. On April 5, 2023, the Company received from the Fort Worth Regional Office of the SEC written notice concluding its investigation as to the Company and advising that the SEC does “not intend to recommend an enforcement action by the Commission against Zion.” Although not expected, if the SEC reopens its investigation and/or brings an enforcement action(s) against Zion, that could result in reputational harm to Zion and may have a material adverse effect on Zion’s current and future business and exploratory activities and its ability to raise capital to continue our oil and gas exploratory activities.
13
Table of Contents
Our ongoing exploration and development efforts are subject to many contingencies outside of our control, and any considerable delay in obtaining all of the needed licenses, approvals and authorizations may severely impair our business.
After months of delay, we received our New Megiddo Valleys License 434 on September 14, 2023 (see above) and our proposed Work Plan on December 6, 2023. On February 21, 2024 the Israeli Supervisory Committee approved the detailed work plan for our re-entry operations on the MJ-01 well. The Supervisory Committee is a group of representatives from various interest groups in Israel tasked with oversight of our license area, including from the Spring Valley Regional Council, along with members of local kibbutzim (self-sustaining economic and social communities). While we have secured these approvals on prior wells we’ve drilled, we have no assurance we can obtain them for any future wells in a timely enough manner to prevent disruption in the provision of necessary services, personnel and equipment from our vendors.
We require significant capital to realize our business plan.
Our ongoing work program is expensive. We believe that our current cash resources are sufficient to allow us to undertake exploratory activities through March 31, 2027. The company raised approximately $6,530,000 from the period January 1, 2026 through March 17, 2026 under the DSPP program, which includes collection of the $29,000 stock subscription receivable at December 31, 2025. We estimate that, when we are not actively drilling a well, our monthly expenditure is approximately $600,000 per month. However, when we are drilling, or testing, we estimate that there is an additional cost of approximately $2,000,000 - $3,000,000 per month. Additionally, the newly enacted onshore licensing and environmental and safety related regulations promulgated by the various energy related ministries in Israel during 2021-2023 are likely to render extending our existing license or obtaining new explorations licenses increasingly expensive. For example, at the time of the award of any new exploration license, we will be required to submit performance bank guarantees in the form of a restricted Israel cash deposits for 10% of the cost of the planned drilling program as well as other amounts to cover potential environmental damages. See “Israel Energy Related Governmental Regulations.”
No assurance can be provided that we will be able to raise funds when needed. Further, we cannot assure you that our actual cash requirements will not exceed our estimates. Even if we were to discover hydrocarbons in commercial quantities, we will require additional financing to bring our interests into commercial operation and pay for operating expenses until we achieve a positive cash flow. Additional capital also may be required in the event we incur any significant unanticipated expenses.
Under the current capital and credit market conditions, we may not be able to obtain additional equity or debt financing on acceptable terms. Even if financing is available, it may not be available on terms that are favorable to us or in sufficient amounts to satisfy our requirements.
If we are unable to obtain additional financing, we may be unable to implement our business plan and our growth strategies, respond to changing business or economic conditions and withstand adverse operating results. If we are unable to raise further financing when required, our planned exploration activities may have to be scaled down or even ceased, and our ability to generate revenues in the future would be negatively affected.
Additional financing could cause your relative interest in our assets and potential earnings to be significantly diluted. Even if we have exploration success, we may not be able to generate sufficient revenues to offset the cost of dry holes and general and administrative expenses.
If we cannot obtain the planned extensions of our Megiddo Valleys 434 License or any additional petroleum exploration licenses we deem necessary to the success of our exploration program, then our business may be severely impaired.
Our ability to obtain desired exploration licenses on acceptable terms is subject to change in regulations and policies and to the discretion of the applicable government agencies in Israel. Additionally, the onshore licensing and environmental and safety related regulations promulgated by the various energy related ministries in Israel during 2021-2023 are likely to render obtaining any license extensions or additional exploration licenses increasingly expensive and more time consuming. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that we will be able to extend our existing license or obtain new or additional exploration rights. If we are unable for whatever reason to obtain the exploration rights that we deem necessary or desirable, our business may be severely impaired.
14
Table of Contents
We rely on independent experts and technical or operational service providers over whom we may have limited control.
The success of our oil and gas exploration efforts is dependent upon the efforts of various third parties that we do not control. These third parties provide critical drilling, engineering, logging, pressure pumping, geological, geophysical and other scientific analytical services, including 2-D and 3-D seismic imaging technology to explore for and develop oil and gas prospects. Given our small size and limited resources, we do not have all the required expertise on staff. As a result, we rely upon various companies and other third parties like engineers, geologists, geophysics, labs and other scientific analytical services to assist us in identifying desirable hydrocarbon prospects to acquire and to provide us with technical assistance and services. In addition, we rely upon the owners and operators of oilfield service equipment.
If any of these relationships with third-party service providers are terminated or are unavailable on commercially acceptable terms, we may not be able to execute our business plan. Our limited control over the activities and business practices of these third parties, any inability on our part to maintain satisfactory commercial relationships with them, their limited availability or their failure to provide quality services could materially and adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.
Exploratory well drilling locations that we decide to drill may not yield oil or natural gas in commercially viable quantities.
There is no way to predict in advance of drilling and testing whether any particular location will yield oil or natural gas in sufficient quantities to recover drilling or completion costs or to be economically viable. The use of technologies and the study of producing fields in the same area, if any, will not enable us to know conclusively prior to drilling and testing whether oil, natural gas liquids (NGLs) or natural gas will be present or, if present, whether oil or natural gas will be present in sufficient quantities to be economically viable. Even if sufficient amounts of oil, NGLs or natural gas exist, we may inadvertently damage the potentially productive hydrocarbon bearing formation or experience mechanical difficulties while drilling or completing a well, resulting in a reduction in production from the well or abandonment of the well. If we drill exploratory wells that we identify as dry holes in our future drilling locations, our business may be materially harmed. We cannot assure you that the analogies we draw from available data from other wells, more fully explored locations or producing fields will be applicable to our drilling locations. Ultimately, the cost of drilling, completing and operating any well is often uncertain, and new wells may not be productive.
Our global operations subject us to various risks, and our failure to manage these risks could adversely affect our results of operations and cash flows.
Our business is subject to certain risks associated with doing business globally, more particularly in Israel. Accordingly, we face significant operational risks as a result of doing business internationally, such as:
● fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates;
● potentially adverse tax consequences and changes in tax laws;
Our failure to manage the market and operational risks associated with our international operations could limit the future growth of our business and adversely affect our results of operations.
15
Table of Contents
Our business and operations would suffer in the event of system failures, and our operations are vulnerable to interruption by natural disasters, terrorist activity, power loss, adverse public health events and other events beyond our control, the occurrence of which could materially harm our business.
Despite the implementation of security measures, our internal computer systems and those of our contractors and consultants are vulnerable to damage from computer viruses, hacking, ransomware, cyber-attacks, unauthorized access as well as telecommunication and electrical failures. Our information technology and other internal infrastructure systems, including corporate firewalls, servers, leased lines and connection to the Internet, face the risk of systemic failure that could disrupt our operations. Although we have invested significant resources to enhance the security of our computer systems, there can be no assurances we will not experience unauthorized intrusions into our computer systems, or those of our vendors, contractors and consultants, that we will successfully detect future unauthorized intrusions in a timely manner or that future unauthorized intrusions will not result in material adverse effects on our financial condition, reputation or business prospects.
While we have not experienced any such system failure, accident or security breach to date, if such an event were to occur and cause interruptions in our operations, it could result in a material disruption of our operations.
We are also vulnerable to accidents, electrical blackouts, labor strikes, terrorist activities, war, natural disasters, adverse public health events and other events beyond our control, and we have not undertaken a systematic analysis of the potential consequences to our business as a result of all of such events and do not have an applicable recovery plan in place. Any disruption to our operations or the operations of our collaborators or suppliers from these kinds of events would likely impact our operating results, cash flows and our financial condition.
Although we carry insurance to protect us against some losses or damages resulting from certain types of disasters, the extent of that insurance is limited in scope and amount, and we cannot assure you that our insurance coverage will be sufficient to satisfy any damages and losses. Any business interruption may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial position, results of operations, cash flows and prospects.
Deterioration of political, economic and security conditions in Israel may adversely affect our operations.
Any major hostilities involving Israel, a substantial decline in the prevailing regional security situation or the interruption or curtailment of trade between Israel and its present trading partners could have a material adverse effect on our operations and cash flows. See the prior discussion on Political Climate.
Prolonged and/or widespread regional conflict in the Middle East could have the following results, among others:
● security concerns leading to evacuation of our personnel;
Loss of property and/or interruption of our business plans resulting from hostile acts could have a significant negative impact on our earnings and cash flow. In addition, we may not have enough insurance to cover any loss of property or other claims resulting from these risks.
16
Table of Contents
We have a history of losses and we cannot assure you that we will ever be profitable.
We incurred net losses of $7,627,000 for the year ended December 31, 2025, and $7,343,000 for the year ended December 31, 2024. We cannot provide any assurance that we will ever be profitable.
Earnings, if any, will be diluted due to governmental royalty and charitable contributions.
We are legally bound to pay a government royalty of 12.5% of gross sales revenues. Additionally, we are legally required to pay 6% of gross sales revenue to two separate foundations (3% each to two separate foundations – see the separate section on Foundations). As our expenses increase with respect to the amount of sales, these donations and allocation could significantly dilute future earnings and, thus, depress the price of the common stock.
Risks Associated with our Business
We are subject to increasing Israeli governmental regulations and environmental requirements that may cause us to incur substantial incremental costs and/or delays in our drilling program.
Our business is subject to laws and regulations promulgated by the State of Israel relating to the exploration for, and the development, production and marketing of, crude oil and natural gas, as well as safety matters. Legal requirements are frequently changed and subject to interpretation, and we are unable to predict the ultimate cost of compliance with these requirements or their effect on our operations. We may be required to make substantial expenditures to comply with governmental laws and regulations.
Environmental laws and regulations change frequently, and the implementation of new, or the modification of existing, laws or regulations could adversely impact our operations. The discharge of natural gas, crude oil, or other pollutants into the air, soil or water may give rise to substantial liabilities on our part to government agencies and third parties and may require us to incur substantial costs of remediation. In addition, we may incur costs and penalties in addressing regulatory agency procedures regarding possible non-compliance.
Our lack of diversification increases the risk of an investment in us, and our financial condition and results of operations may deteriorate if we fail to diversify.
Our business focus is on oil and gas exploration on a limited number of properties in Israel and exploitation of any significant reserves that are found within our license areas. As a result, we lack diversification, in terms of both the nature and geographic scope of our business. We will likely be impacted more acutely by factors affecting our industry or the regions in which we operate than we would if our business were more diversified. If we are unable to diversify our operations and cash flows, our financial condition and results of operations and cash flows could deteriorate.
We currently have no proved reserves or current production and we may never have any.
We do not have any proved reserves or current production of oil or gas. We cannot assure you that any wells will be completed or produce oil or gas in commercially profitable quantities.
Oil and gas exploration is an inherently risky business.
Exploratory drilling involves enormous risks, including the risk that no commercially productive oil or natural gas reservoirs will be discovered. Even when properly used and interpreted, seismic data analysis and other computer simulation techniques are only tools used to assist geoscientists in trying to identify subsurface structures and the presence of an active petroleum system. They do not allow the interpreter to know conclusively if hydrocarbons are present or economically available. The risk analysis techniques we use in evaluating potential drilling sites rely on subjective judgments of our personnel and consultants. Additionally, we are typically engaged in drilling deep onshore wildcat exploratory wells in Israel where only approximately 500 total wells have ever been drilled, the vast majority of which are relatively shallow. As such, exploration risks are inherently very substantial.
17
Table of Contents
A substantial and extended decline in oil or natural gas prices could adversely impact our future rate of growth and the carrying value of our unproved oil and gas assets.
Prices for oil and natural gas fluctuate widely. Fluctuations in the prices of oil and natural gas will affect many aspects of our business, including our ability to attract capital to finance our operations, our cost of capital, and the value of any unproved oil and natural gas properties. Prices for oil and natural gas may fluctuate widely in response to relatively minor changes in the supply of and demand for oil and natural gas, market uncertainty and a wide variety of additional factors that are beyond our control, such as the domestic and foreign supply of oil and natural gas, technological advances affecting energy consumption, and domestic and foreign governmental regulations. Significant and extended reductions in oil and natural gas prices could require us to reduce our capital expenditures and impair the carrying value of our assets.
While there is much analysis and speculation as to the cause of this fluctuation in the price and its predicted future course, there are many factors that contribute to the price of oil, none of which the Company controls. The oil price is also impacted by actual supply and demand, as well as by expectation. Demand for energy is closely related to economic activity which is compounded by key advances and innovation in exploration techniques in recent years. Significant geopolitical events such as heightened conflict in the Middle East, the current Israel-Hamas war, and large-scale terrorist activities can also impact the price of oil tremendously.
If we are successful in finding commercial quantities of oil and/or gas, our revenues, operating results, financial condition and ability to borrow funds or obtain additional capital will depend substantially on prevailing prices for oil and natural gas. Declines in oil and gas prices may materially adversely affect our financial condition, liquidity, ability to obtain financing and operating results. Lower oil and gas prices also may reduce the amount of oil and gas that we could produce economically.
Historically, oil and gas prices and markets have been volatile, with prices fluctuating widely, and they are likely to continue to be volatile, making it impossible to predict with any certainty the future prices of oil and gas. The bottom line is that there are many and varied causes for the fluctuation in the price of oil and natural gas, and we have no control over these factors.
Because a certain portion of our expenses is incurred in currencies other than the U.S. dollar, our results of operations and cash flows may be adversely impacted by currency fluctuations and inflation.
Although our reporting and functional currency is the U.S. dollar, we pay a substantial portion of our expenses in New Israeli Shekel (NIS). As a result, we are exposed to the currency fluctuation risks. For example, if the U.S. dollar weakens against the NIS, our reported financial results in U.S. dollars may be lower than anticipated. We may, in the future, decide to enter into currency hedging transactions to decrease the risk of financial exposure from fluctuations in the exchange rates of the currencies mentioned above in relation to the U.S. dollar. These measures, however, may not adequately protect us from material adverse effects.
The insurance we carry may be insufficient to cover all of the risks we face, which could result in significant financial exposure.
Exploration for and production of crude oil and natural gas can be hazardous, involving natural disasters and other unplanned events such as blowouts, well cratering, fire and explosion and loss of well control which can result in damage to or destruction of wells, injury to persons, loss of life, or damage to property and the environment. Exploration and production activities are also subject to risk from political developments such as terrorist acts, piracy, civil disturbances, war, expropriation or nationalization of assets, which can cause loss of or damage to our property.
As is customary within our industry, we maintain insurance against many, but not all, potential perils confronting our operations and in coverage amounts and deductible levels that we believe to be appropriate but economic. Consistent with that profile, our insurance program is structured to provide us financial protection from unfavorable loss resulting from damages to or the loss of physical assets or loss of human life, liability claims of third parties, and exploratory drilling interruption attributed to certain assets and including such occurrences as well blowouts and resulting oil spills, at a level that balances cost of insurance with our assessment of risk and our ability to achieve a reasonable rate of return on our investments. Although we believe the coverage and amounts of insurance carried are adequate and consistent with industry practice, we do not have insurance protection against all the risks we face. Because we chose not to insure certain risks, insurance may not be available at a level that balances the cost of insurance and our desired rates of return, or actual losses exceed coverage limits. We regularly review our risks of loss and the cost and availability of insurance and revise our insurance program accordingly.
If an event occurs that is not covered by insurance or not fully protected by insured limits, it could have a significant adverse impact on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
18
Table of Contents
We face various risks associated with the trend toward increased activism against oil and gas exploration and development activities.
Opposition toward oil and gas drilling and development activity has been growing globally and is particularly pronounced in Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (“OECD”) countries which include the U.S., the U.K and Israel. Companies in the oil and gas industry, such as us, are often the target of activist efforts from both individuals and non-governmental organizations regarding environmental compliance and business practices, potential damage to fresh water sources, and safety, among other topics. Future activist efforts could result in the following:
● delay or denial of drilling or other exploration permits or licenses;
● shortening of lease terms or reduction in lease size;
● legal challenges or lawsuits;
● damaging publicity about us;
● increased costs of doing business;
● reduction in demand for our products; and
Our need to incur costs associated with responding to these initiatives or complying with any resulting new legal or regulatory requirements resulting from these activities that are substantial and not adequately provided for, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations and cash flows.
Economic risks may adversely affect our operations and/or inhibit our ability to raise additional capital.
Economically, our operations in Israel may be subject to:
● exchange rate fluctuations;
● changes in Israel’s economy that could lead to oil and gas price controls; and
19
Table of Contents
Consequently, our operations may be substantially affected by local economic factors beyond our control, any of which could negatively affect our financial performance and prospects.
Legal risks could negatively affect our market value.
Legally, our operations in Israel may be subject to:
The Israeli Energy Ministry has now enacted regulations relating to licensing requirements for entities engaged in the fuel sector that would result in our having to obtain additional licenses to market and sell hydrocarbons that we may discover.
Further, in the event of a legal dispute in Israel, we may be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of Israeli courts or we may not be successful in subjecting persons who are not United States residents to the jurisdiction of courts in the United States, either of which could adversely affect the outcome of a dispute.
There are limitations on the transfer of interests in our petroleum rights, which could impair our ability to raise additional funds to execute our business plan.
The Israeli government has the right to approve any transfer of rights and interests in any license or other petroleum right we hold or may be granted and any mortgage of any license or other petroleum rights to borrow money. If we attempt to raise additional funds through borrowings or joint ventures with other companies and are unable to obtain required approvals from the government, the value of your investment could be significantly diluted or even lost.
Our dependence on the limited contractors, equipment and professional services available in Israel may result in increased costs and possibly material delays in our work schedule.
Due to the lack of competitive resources in Israel, costs for our operations may be more expensive than costs for similar operations in other parts of the world. We are also more likely to incur delays in our exploration schedules and be subject to a greater risk of failure in meeting our required work schedule. Similarly, some of the oil field personnel we need to undertake our planned operations are not necessarily available in Israel or available on short notice for work in Israel. Any or all of the factors specified above may result in increased costs and delays in the work schedule.
Our dependence on Israeli local licenses and permits as well as new regulations calling for enhanced bank guarantees and insurance coverage may require more funds than we have budgeted and may cause delays in our work schedule.
In connection with drilling operations, we are subject to a number of Israeli local licenses and permits. Some of these are issued by the Israeli Defense Forces, the Civil Aviation Authority, the Israeli Water Commission, the Israel Lands Authority, the holders of the surface rights in the lands on which we intend to conduct drilling operations, local and regional planning commissions and environmental authorities.
20
Table of Contents
In the event of a Commercial Discovery approved by the Petroleum Commissioner and depending on the nature of the discovery and the production and related distribution equipment necessary to produce and sell the discovered hydrocarbons, we will be subject to additional licenses and permits, including from various departments in the Energy Ministry, regional and local planning commissions, the environmental authorities and the Israel Lands Authority. If we are unable to obtain some or all of these permits or the time required to obtain them is longer than anticipated, we may have to alter or delay our planned work schedule, which would increase our costs.
If we are successful in finding commercial quantities of oil and/or gas, our operations will be subject to laws and regulations relating to the generation, storage, handling, emission, transportation and discharge of substances into the environment, which can adversely affect the cost, manner or feasibility of our doing business. Many Israeli laws and regulations require permits for the operation of various facilities, and these permits are subject to revocation, modification and renewal. Governmental authorities have the power to enforce compliance with their regulations, and violations could subject us to fines, injunctions or both.
If compliance with environmental regulations is more expensive than anticipated, it could adversely impact the profitability and cash flows of our business.
Risks of substantial costs and liabilities related to environmental compliance issues are inherent in oil and gas operations. It is possible that other developments, such as stricter environmental laws and regulations, and claims for damages to property or persons resulting from oil and gas exploration and production, would result in substantial costs and liabilities. This could also cause our insurance premiums to be significantly greater than anticipated.
The unavailability or high cost of equipment, supplies, other oil field services and personnel could adversely affect our ability to execute our exploration and development plans on a timely basis and within our budget.
Our industry is cyclical and, from time to time, there is a shortage of equipment, supplies and oilfield services. There may also be a shortage of trained and experienced personnel. During these periods, the costs of such items are substantially greater and their availability may be limited, particularly in locations that typically have limited availability of equipment and personnel, such as the Eastern Mediterranean, where our operations are located. As a result, equipment, supplies and oilfield services may not be available at rates that provide a satisfactory return on our investment.
Significant disruptions of information technology systems or security breaches could adversely affect our business.
We are increasingly dependent upon information technology systems, infrastructure and data to operate our business. In the ordinary course of business, we collect, store and transmit large amounts of confidential information (including, among other things, trade secrets or other intellectual property, proprietary business information and personal information). It is critical that we do so in a secure manner to maintain the confidentiality and integrity of such confidential information. Additionally, we have outsourced elements of our operations to third parties, and as a result we manage a number of third-party vendors who may or could have access to our confidential information. Cyber-attacks are increasing in their frequency, sophistication and intensity, and have become increasingly difficult to detect. Cyber-attacks could include the deployment of harmful malware, ransomware, denial-of-service attacks, social engineering and other means to affect service reliability and threaten the confidentiality, integrity and availability of information. The size and complexity of our information technology systems and those of the third-party vendors and service providers with whom we contract make these environments inherently vulnerable. Because we store large volumes of confidential information across our infrastructure, we face risks of service interruptions and security breaches. These vulnerabilities may be exploited through inadvertent or intentional actions by employees, vendors, and business partners, or through cyber attacks by malicious third parties. Likewise, our reliance on third-party systems creates supply chain vulnerabilities outside our direct oversight. A compromise of a vendor’s environment could facilitate unauthorized access to our environments or data.
Significant disruptions or security breaches affecting our information technology systems or those of our third-party vendors and business partners could adversely impact our operations. Such incidents may result in the loss, misappropriation, or unauthorized disclosure of confidential data, including trade secrets, intellectual property, and personal information. Consequently, these failures could lead to substantial financial, legal, and reputational harm. Security breaches and other unauthorized inappropriate access can be difficult to detect, and any delay in identifying them may lead to increased harm of the type described above. While we have implemented security measures to protect our information technology systems and infrastructure, there can be no assurance that such measures will prevent service interruptions or security breaches that could adversely affect our business. In addition, our liability insurance may not be sufficient in type or amount to cover us against costs of or claims related to security breaches, cyber-attacks and other related breaches. A cybersecurity breach could adversely affect our reputation and could result in other negative consequences, including disruption of our internal operations, increased cybersecurity protection costs, lost revenue, or litigation.
21
Table of Contents
Risks Related to our Common Stock
We will issue additional common stock in the future, which would dilute the ownership interests of our existing stockholders.
In the future, we anticipate issuing additional securities in connection with capital raising efforts, including shares of our common stock or securities convertible into or exchangeable for our common stock, resulting in the dilution of the ownership interests of our stockholders. We are authorized under our amended and restated certificate of incorporation to issue 1,600,000,000 shares of common stock. As of March 13, 2026 there were approximately 1,179,449,952 shares of our common stock issued and outstanding.
When we offer a particular series of securities, we will describe the intended use of the net proceeds from that offering in a prospectus supplement. The actual amount of net proceeds we spend on a particular use will depend on many factors, including, our future capital expenditures, the amount of cash required by our operations, and our future revenue growth, if any. Therefore, we will retain broad discretion in the use of the net proceeds.
Because the likelihood of paying cash dividends on our common stock is remote at this time, stockholders must look solely to appreciation of our common stock to realize a gain on their investments.
We do not know when or if we will pay dividends. We currently intend to retain future earnings, if any, to finance the expansion of our business. Our future dividend policy is within the discretion of our board of directors and will depend upon various factors, including our business, financial condition, results of operations, capital requirements and investment opportunities. Accordingly, stockholders must look solely to appreciation of our common stock to realize a gain on their investment. This appreciation may not occur.
Our stock price and trading volume may be volatile, which could result in losses for our stockholders.
The public market for our common stock has been characterized by significant price and volume fluctuations. There can be no assurance that the market price of our common stock will not decline below its current or historic price ranges. The market price may bear no relationship to the prospects, stage of development, existence of oil and gas reserves, revenues, earnings, assets or potential of our company and may not be indicative of our future business performance. The trading price of our common stock could be subject to wide fluctuations. Fluctuations in the price of oil and gas and related international political events can be expected to affect the price of our common stock. In addition, the stock market in general has experienced extreme price and volume fluctuations that have affected the market price for many companies, sometimes unrelated to the operating performance of these companies. These market fluctuations, as well as general economic, political and market conditions, may have a material adverse effect on the market price of our common stock.
Some of the factors that could negatively affect our share price or result in fluctuations in the price or trading volume of our common stock include:
● actual or anticipated quarterly variations in our operating results,
● the lack or the delay in obtaining necessary regulatory approvals,
● announcements relating to our business or the business of our competitors,
● the success of our operating strategy,
● the operating and stock performance of other comparable companies, and
● The continued listing of our stock on a recognized stock exchange
Many of these factors are beyond our control, and we cannot predict their potential effect on the price of our common stock.
22
Table of Contents
ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
Not Applicable.
ITEM 1C.CYBER SECURITY
Risk management and strategy
We assess material risks from cyber security threats on an ongoing basis, including any potential unauthorized occurrence on or conducted through our Information Technology (IT) systems that may result in adverse effects on the confidentiality, integrity, or availability of our systems, infrastructure or information residing therein. We have developed and implemented various processes to oversee and manage cybersecurity risks and have integrated this cybersecurity risk management framework into our Company’s broader risk management framework.
Governance
Our management and the Board recognize the critical importance of managing cyber security risks as part of our larger risk management program. While all of our personnel play a part in managing cyber security risks, one of the key functions of our Board is to provide informed oversight of our risk management process, including risks from cyber security threats.Our Chief Financial Officer briefs the executive leadership team, the Board, and the Audit Committee regarding cybersecurity risks, strategy, and management at least annually.
Our cybersecurity team is comprised of members of senior leadership, including in-house legal counsel and independent third-party SOC 2 certified IT and cybersecurity consultants that serve as our Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP). Our MSSP has substantial experience involving cybersecurity risk management and IT, including security, compliance, systems and programming. These individuals are informed about, and monitor the prevention, mitigation, detection and remediation of cybersecurity incidents through their management of, and participation in, the cybersecurity risk management and strategy process described above, and report to our internal executive team on a regular basis.
Engaging Third Parties on Risk Management
We collaborate with vendors, service providers, assessors, auditors, consultants, and other third parties on an as-needed basis to develop secure informational and operational technology systems and protect against cybersecurity threats. For example, we engage third-party security experts to monitor our network and conduct risk assessments and program enhancements.
Managing Third-Party Cybersecurity Risk
We recognize the potential cybersecurity risks associated with the use of third parties that provide services to us, process information on our behalf, or have access to our informational or operational technology systems, and we have processes in place to oversee and manage these risks. These processes include conducting vendor due diligence and risk assessments, participating in industry information sharing groups, subscribing to cybersecurity notification services, and maintaining ongoing collaboration with federal agencies. We also seek to mitigate third-party cybersecurity risk through contractual safeguards, and/or regular review of the internal control reports of such third parties.
Material Impact from Cybersecurity Incidents
The Company has not experienced a material cyber security incident or a cyber security threat that has had, or are likely to have, material impacts to our business, operations, finances, or reputation during 2025 nor in any prior years. The company’s overall risk management systems and processes have followed the recommended guidelines of our cyber security insurance company. The Audit Committee has the board’s oversight of risk from cyber security threats and the responsibility for reviewing the management processes. Management’s role in assessing and managing material risks from cyber security threats is the responsibility of the Chief Financial Officer, who reports and coordinates any potential material risk to the Audit Committee.
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
At December 31, 2025, the Company held one active petroleum exploration license onshore Israel, the New Megiddo Valleys License 434, comprising approximately 75,000 acres. This License was awarded on September 14, 2023 and had much of the same area and coordinates as the replaced License 428 and expires on September 13, 2026.
Please refer to the discussion above under Part 1, Item 1, Business.
The table below summarizes certain data for our license area for the year ended December 31, 2025:
Area Working Expiration
Type of Right Name (Approx. Acres) Interest Date
Surface Rights
The surface rights to the drill site in the New Megiddo Valleys License 434 area are held under a long-term lease by Kibbutz Sde Eliyahu. The rights are owned by the State of Israel and administered by the Israel Lands Authority. Permission has been granted to Zion by both Kibbutz Sde Eliyahu and the Israel Lands Authority for the use of the surface rights.
The surface rights to former drill sites in the former Joseph License area are held under a long-term lease by Kibbutz Ma’anit. The rights are owned by the State of Israel and administered by the Israel Lands Authority. Permission has been granted to Zion by Kibbutz Ma’anit for the use of the surface rights. The Company has completed the plugging obligations of all wells within the Joseph License area and acknowledges its obligation to complete the abandonment of the wells in accordance with guidance from the Environmental Ministry even though the Joseph License has expired.
Summary of Exploration Activities/Present Activities
Please refer to the discussion above under Item 1, under the caption “Summary of Exploration Activities.”
23
Table of Contents
Office Properties
The Company had an option to renew the lease for another five years from February 1, 2024 to January 31, 2029, provided it is not in breach of the agreement, where it is required as well to furnish a notice of intent to exercise the option six months prior to termination of lease, and it furnishes a bank guarantee and insurance confirmation prior to commencement of the option period. The Company exercised the option to renew the lease for another seven years from February 1, 2024 through January 31, 2031, when rent is to be paid on a monthly basis in the base amount of approximately NIS 46,500 per month (approximately $12,800) at the exchange rate in effect on the date of this report and is linked to an increase (but not a decrease) in the CPI.
Geneva Branch
On July 11, 2014, Zion Oil & Gas, Inc., Geneva Branch was registered in the Canton of Geneva, Switzerland. The legal Swiss name for the foreign branch is “Zion Oil & Gas, Inc., Wilmington, Branch of Geneva”. The Zion Swiss Branch has its registered office and its business office at 47 Avenue Blanc, 1202 , Geneva, Switzerland. The purpose of the branch is to operate a foreign treasury center for the Company.
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Litigation
From time to time, the Company may be subject to routine litigation, claims or disputes in the ordinary course of business. The Company defends itself vigorously in all such matters. However, we cannot predict the outcome or effect of any of the potential litigation, claims or disputes.
On June 3, 2025, the Company received a notification via summons that it is being sued in the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles under the state’s “Trap and Trace” law. California’s Trap and Trace law, part of the California Invasion of Privacy Act (CIPA) Penal Code Section 638.51 prohibits installing or using devices or processes to capture incoming electronic signaling information (like IP addresses or routing data) without a court order or user consent. The Company has retained counsel in the state of California and this case is ongoing. Approximately $25,000 in legal expenses was recognized in 2025. We are expecting to incur additional expenses in 2026, but they are not expected to be material to the Company. Our retained counsel in California advised us that the California courts are backlogged with similar cases and that a resolution to our case is not expected for months. We believe we have a strong case based on the facts.
On March 9, 2026, the Company was advised by the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles, that the lawsuit was dismissed without prejudice against the Company.
ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES
Not Applicable.
24
Table of Contents
PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR THE REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
Market Information
We completed our initial public offering of our common stock in January 2007. From January 3, 2007 through September 1, 2009, shares of our common stock were traded on the NYSE Amex under the symbol “ZN.” From September 2, 2009, through July 10, 2019, our common stock traded on the Nasdaq Global Market, also under the symbol “ZN.” From July 11, 2019 through September 1, 2020, our common stock continued to trade on the Nasdaq Capital Market, also under the symbol “ZN.” Since September 3, 2020, our common stock began trading on OTCQX under the symbol “ZNOG.” On January 1, 2024, our common stock began trading on the OTCQB under the same symbol “ZNOG.” The Zion warrant “ZNWAA” has been trading under the symbol “ZNOGW.” During January 2026, the Company applied for trading on the OTCQX Market, and on February 5, 2026 our ZNOG and ZNOGW began trading on the OTCQX Market.
Holders
As of December 31, 2025, there were approximately 23,146 shareholders of record of our common stock. A significant number of shares of our Common Stock are held in either nominee name or street name brokerage accounts and, consequently, we are unable to determine the number of beneficial owners of our stock.
Dividends
We have never paid dividends on our common stock and do not plan to pay dividends on the common stock in the foreseeable future. Whether dividends will be paid in the future will be in the discretion of our board of directors and will depend on various factors, including our earnings and financial condition and other factors our board of directors considers relevant. We currently intend to retain earnings to develop and expand our business.
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
We do not have a stock repurchase program for our common stock.
Insider Trading Policies
The company has adopted insider trading policies and procedures applicable to directors, officers and employees. There are no Rule 10b5-1 trading plans in effect and there are no policies and practices regarding the timing of stock options and stock appreciation right (SAR) awards, other than stock option awards per officer employment agreements. While the company is not subjected to the insider trading policy, the company does not trade in its securities when it is in possession of material nonpublic information other than pursuant to previously adopted Rule 10b5-1 trading plans.
Suppliers may not use or share insider information concerning the Company for the purpose of trading in the Company’s common stock or other securities. Insider information includes material nonpublic information about matters such as significant contracts, claims, liabilities, major litigation, potential sales, mergers or acquisitions, development plans, operational activities, earnings, forecasts and budgets. Material information is any information, either positive or negative information that a reasonable investor would consider important in a decision to buy, hold, or sell securities.
ITEM 6. [RESERVED]
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Introduction
The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with our accompanying consolidated financial statements and the notes to those consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report. Some of our discussion is forward-looking and involves risks and uncertainties. For information regarding factors that could have a material adverse effect on our business, refer to Risk Factors under Item 1A of this Report.
Overview
Zion Oil and Gas, Inc., a Texas corporation, is an oil and gas exploration company with a history of 25 years of oil and gas exploration in Israel. We were incorporated in Florida on April 6, 2000 and reincorporated in Delaware on July 9, 2003. The shareholders of Zion Oil & Gas, Inc. approved the re-domestication of its incorporation to Texas on June 4, 2025.
We completed our initial public offering in January 2007. Our common stock, par value $0.01 per share (the “Common Stock”) currently trades on the OTCQX Market under the symbol “ZNOG” and our Common Stock warrant under the symbol “ZNOGW.”
25
Table of Contents
On September 14, 2023, the Israel Ministry of Energy approved a new Megiddo Valleys License 434 (“NMVL 434”), allowing oil and gas exploration on approximately 75,000 acres or 302 square kilometers out of the approximately 99,000 acres covered by our previous New Megiddo License 428 (“NML 428”) which expired on February 1, 2023. Zion applied for a replacement license for NML 428 months prior to its expiration. This Exploration License 434 will be valid for three years until September 13, 2026 with four potential 1-year extensions for a total of seven years until September 13, 2030. This NMVL 434 effectively supersedes our previous NML 428.
The NMVL 434 lies onshore, south and west of the Sea of Galilee, and we continue our exploration focus here based on our studies as it appears to possess the key geologic ingredients of an active petroleum system with significant exploration potential.
See Item 1 for a detailed listing of our exploration activities, milestones and/or timelines.
I-35 Drilling Rig & Associated Equipment
On March 12, 2020, Zion entered into a Purchase and Sale Agreement with Central European Drilling kft, a Hungarian corporation, to purchase an onshore oil and gas drilling rig, drilling pipe, related equipment and spare parts for a purchase price of $5.6 million in cash, subject to acceptance testing and potential downward adjustment.
I-35 Rig Other
Drilling Spare Drilling
Rig Parts Assets Total
US$ US$ US$ US$
Gross Assets: thousands thousands thousands thousands
Asset Disposals for Self-Consumption - (52 ) - (52 )
Accumulated Depreciation:
I-35 Rig Other
Drilling Spare Drilling
Rig Parts Assets Total
US$ US$ US$ US$
Gross Assets: thousands thousands thousands thousands
Asset Disposals - - (98 ) (98 )
Asset Disposals for Self-Consumption - (39 ) - (39 )
Accumulated Depreciation:
Zion’s ability to fully undertake all of these aforementioned activities was subject to its raising the needed capital through the issuance of our securities, and we anticipate we will continue to need to raise funds through the issuance of equity securities (or securities convertible into or exchangeable for equity securities). No assurance can be provided that we will be successful in raising the needed equity on favorable terms (or at all).
26
Table of Contents
Our executive offices are located at 12222 Merit Drive, Suite 1000, Dallas, Texas 75251, and our telephone number is (214) 221-4610. Our field office in Israel is located at 9 Halamish Street, North Industrial Park, Caesarea 3088900, and the telephone number is +972-4-623-8500.
Principal Components of our Cost Structure
Our operating and other expenses primarily consist of the following:
Going Concern Basis
Although we have limited capital resources, no revenue to date and a loss from operations, our consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis, which contemplates realization of assets and liquidation of liabilities in the ordinary course of business. The appropriateness of using the going concern basis is dependent upon our ability to obtain additional financing or equity capital and, ultimately, to achieve profitable operations. Therefore, there is substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern. The consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty.
Critical Accounting Policies
Management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations is based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The preparation of these consolidated financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expense during the reporting period.
27
Table of Contents
We have identified the accounting principles which we believe are most critical to the reported financial status by considering accounting policies that involve the most complex of subjective decisions or assessment.
Impairment of Unproved Oil and Gas Properties
We follow the full-cost method of accounting for oil and gas properties. Accordingly, all costs associated with acquisition, exploration and development of oil and gas reserves, including directly related overhead costs, are capitalized.
All capitalized costs of oil and gas properties, including the estimated future costs to develop proved reserves, are amortized on the unit-of-production method using estimates of proved reserves. Investments in unproved properties and major development projects are not amortized until proved reserves associated with the projects can be determined or until impairment occurs. If the results of an assessment indicate that the properties are impaired, the amount of the impairment is included in income from continuing operations before income taxes, and the adjusted carrying amount of the unproved properties is amortized on the unit-of-production method.
Our oil and gas properties represent an investment in unproved properties. These costs are excluded from the amortized cost pool until proved reserves are found or until it is determined that the costs are impaired. All costs excluded are reviewed at least quarterly to determine if impairment has occurred. The amount of any impairment is charged to expense since a reserve base has not yet been established. A further impairment requiring a charge to expense may be indicated through evaluation of drilling results, relinquishing drilling rights or other information.
Abandonment of properties is accounted for as adjustments to capitalized costs. The net capitalized costs are subject to a “ceiling test” which limits such costs to the aggregate of the estimated present value of future net revenues from proved reserves discounted at ten percent based on current economic and operating conditions, plus the lower of cost or fair market value of unproved properties. The recoverability of amounts capitalized for oil and gas properties is dependent upon the identification of economically recoverable reserves, together with obtaining the necessary financing to exploit such reserves and the achievement of profitable operations.
The total net book value of our unproved oil and gas properties under the full cost method was $27,673,000 and $21,682,000 at December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively.
Currency Utilized
Although our oil & gas properties and our principal operations are in Israel, we report all our transactions in United States dollars. Certain dollar amounts in the consolidated financial statements may represent the dollar equivalent of other currencies.
28
Table of Contents
Valuation of Deferred Taxes
We record a valuation allowance to reduce our deferred tax asset to the amount that we believe is likely to be realized in the future. In assessing the need for the valuation allowance, we have considered not only future taxable income but also feasible and prudent tax planning strategies. In the event that we were to determine that it would be likely that we would, in the future, realize our deferred tax assets in excess of the net recorded amount, an adjustment to the deferred tax asset would be made. In the period that such a determination was made, the adjustment to the deferred tax asset would produce an increase in our net income.
Asset Retirement Obligation
We record a liability for asset retirement obligation at fair value in the period in which it is incurred and a corresponding increase in the carrying amount of the related long-lived assets.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following table sets forth our Statements of Operations data for the years ended December 31 (all data is in thousands of USD) for 2025 and 2024:
Operating costs and expenses:
General and administrative expenses 4,943 4,645
Other (income) expense, net (104 ) 4
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2025 COMPARED TO DECEMBER 31, 2024
Revenue. We currently have no revenue generating operations.
29
Table of Contents
Operating costs and expenses. Operating costs and expenses for the year ended December 31, 2025 were $7,731,000 compared to $7,339,000 for the year ended December 31, 2024. Operating costs for the year ended December 31, 2025 were $392,000 5% higher compared to the year ended December 31, 2024.
General and administrative expenses. General and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2025 were $4,943,000 compared to $4,645,000 for the year ended December 31, 2024. This represents a growth of $298,000, or 6%, year over year. In 2025, payroll-related expenses were higher in lieu of a lower number of stock options granted.
Other expenses. Other expenses during the year ended December 31, 2025 were $2,788,000 compared to $2,694,000 for the year ended December 31, 2024. This is a variance of $94,000 or 3%, which is not a material variance. The expenses in this category are comprised of non-compensation and non-professional expenses incurred.
Other (income) expense, net. Other (income) expense, net for the year ended December 31, 2025 was ($104,000) compared to $4,000 for the year ended December 31, 2024. This is a variance of $108,000 or 2,700%. The expenses/income in this category are comprised of foreign currency exchange costs, primarily the New Israeli Shekel (NIS) to the US dollar, and the financial expenses/income. Zion earned higher interest income during 2025, due to higher average cash balances.
Net Loss. Net loss for the year ended December 31, 2025 was $7,627,000 compared to $7,343,000 for the year ended December 31, 2024.
30
Table of Contents
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Liquidity is a measure of a company’s ability to meet potential cash requirements. As discussed above, we have historically met our capital requirements through the issuance of common stock as well as proceeds from the exercise of warrants and options to purchase common shares.
Our ability to continue as a going concern is dependent upon obtaining the necessary financing to complete further exploration and development activities and generate profitable operations from our oil and natural gas interests in the future. Our current operations are dependent upon the adequacy of our current assets to meet our current expenditure requirements and the accuracy of management’s estimates of those requirements. Should those estimates be materially incorrect, our ability to continue as a going concern will be in doubt. Our consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2025 have been prepared on a going concern basis, which contemplates the realization of assets and the settlement of liabilities and commitments in the normal course of business. We have a history of operating losses and negative cash flows from operations. Therefore, there is substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern.
During the past two completed fiscal years, we have financed our operations primarily from the proceeds of sales of our stock under the Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan (see Note 6E for details). For the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024, we raised approximately $21,479,000 and $16,257,000, respectively, under the Plan. Of the amounts raised, approximately 60% of the amounts raised in 2025 were attributable to two participants and 57% of the amounts raised in 2024 were attributable to one participant. The cessation of funding from these participants may result in adverse consequences to our business, such as a delay in our testing efforts, until we locate alternate sources for this funding.
At December 31, 2025, we had approximately $8,313,000 in unrestricted cash and cash equivalents compared to $2,272,000 at December 31, 2024. Our working capital (current assets minus current liabilities) was $9,463,000 at December 31, 2025 and $1,702,000 at December 31, 2024.
As of December 31, 2025, and 2024, the Company provided Israeli-required bank guarantees to various governmental bodies (approximately $1,424,000 and $972,000, respectively) and others (approximately $109,000 and $92,000, respectively) with respect to its drilling operation in an aggregate amount of approximately $1,533,000 and $1,064,000, respectively. The cash funds backing these guarantees are held in restricted interest-bearing accounts and are reported on the Company’s balance sheets as cash and cash equivalents – restricted.
During the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024, cash used in operating activities totaled $8,013,000 and $6,288,000, respectively. Cash provided by financing activities during the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024 was $21,175,000 and $13,263,000, respectively, and is primarily attributable to proceeds received from the Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan (the “DSPP” or “Plan”). Net cash used in investing activities such as drilling costs for our MJ-01 exploratory well, and purchases of equipment and spare parts was $6,636,000 and $5,274,000 for the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively.
31
Table of Contents
Accounting standards require management to evaluate our ability to continue as a going concern for a period of one year subsequent to the date of the filing of the consolidated financial statements. We expect to incur additional significant expenditures to further our exploration and development programs. While we raised approximately $6,530,000, during the period January 1, 2026 through March 17 2026, which includes collection of the $29,000 stock subscription receivable at December 31, 2025, we will need to raise additional funds in order to continue our exploration and development activities. Additionally, we estimate that, when we are not actively drilling a well, our expenditures are approximately $600,000 per month excluding exploratory operational activities and capital expenditures. However, when we are actively drilling a well, we estimate an additional minimum expenditure of approximately $2,500,000 per month. The above estimates are subject to change. Subject to the qualifications specified below, management believes that our existing cash balance, coupled with anticipated proceeds under the DSPP, will be sufficient to finance our plan of operations through March 31, 2027.
Uncertainties are posed by the various wars and conflicts affecting Israel including, but not limited to, Iran, Hezbollah, Hamas, the Houthis (in Yemen), as well as armed groups in Syria and Iraq. The duration and impacts of these conflicts and/or wars are not fully known at this point in time.
No assurance can be provided that we will be able to raise the needed operating capital.
Even if we raise the needed funds, there are factors that can nevertheless adversely impact our ability to fund our operating needs, including (without limitation), the potential impact(s) of the aforementioned conflicts and wars affecting Israel, unexpected or unforeseen cost overruns in planned non-drilling exploratory work in existing license areas, the costs associated with extended delays in undertaking the required exploratory work, and plugging and abandonment activities which is typical of what we have experienced in the past.
The financial information contained in the consolidated financial statements has been prepared on a basis that assumes that we will continue as a going concern, which contemplates the realization of assets and the satisfaction of liabilities and commitments in the normal course of business. This financial information and these consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments that may result from the outcome of this uncertainty.
The Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan
On March 13, 2014, Zion filed a registration statement on Form S-3 that was part of a replacement registration statement that was filed with the SEC using a “shelf” registration process. The registration statement was declared effective by the SEC on March 31, 2014. On February 23, 2017, the Company filed a Form S-3 with the SEC (Registration No. 333-216191) as a replacement for the Form S-3 (Registration No. 333-193336), for which the three-year period ended March 31, 2017, along with the base Prospectus and Supplemental Prospectus. The Form S-3, as amended, and the new base Prospectus became effective on March 10, 2017, along with the Prospectus Supplement that was filed and became effective on March 10, 2017. The Prospectus Supplement under Registration No. 333-216191 describes the terms of the DSPP and replaces the prior Prospectus Supplement, as amended, under the prior Registration No. 333-193336.
32
Table of Contents
On December 14, 2022, the Company extended the termination date of the ZNWAG warrant by one (1) year from the expiration date of January 8, 2023 to January 8, 2024. Zion considers this warrant as permanent equity per ASC 815-40-35-2. As such, there is no value assigned to this extension.
As of January 8, 2024, any outstanding ZNWAG warrants expired.
Under our Plan, the Company under a Request For Waiver Program executed Waiver Term Sheets of a unit option program consisting of a Unit (shares of stock and warrants) of its securities and subsequently an option program consisting of shares of stock to a participant. The participant’s Plan account was credited with the number of shares of the Company’s Common Stock and warrants that were acquired. Each warrant provided the participant the opportunity to purchase one share of our Common Stock at a warrant exercise price of $1.00. The warrant has the company notation of “ZNWAM.” The warrants were not registered for trading on the OTCQB or any other stock market or trading market. The warrants became exercisable on January 15, 2021 and continued to be exercisable through July 15, 2022.
On March 21, 2022, the Company extended the termination date of the ZNWAM warrant by one (1) year from the expiration date of July 15, 2022 to July 15, 2023 and revised the exercise price to $0.05. Zion considers this warrant as permanent equity per ASC 815-40-35-2. As such, there is no value assigned to this extension.
On June 16, 2023, the Company extended the termination date of the ZNWAM warrant from July 15, 2023 to September 6, 2023. Zion considers this warrant as permanent equity per ASC 815-40-35-2. As such, there is no value assigned to this extension.
On August 21, 2023, the Company extended the termination date of the ZNWAM warrant from September 6, 2023 to October 31, 2023. Zion considers this warrant as permanent equity per ASC 815-40-35-2. As such, there is no value assigned to this extension.
On October 19, 2023, the Company extended the termination date of the ZNWAM warrant from October 31, 2023 to December 31, 2023. Zion considers this warrant as permanent equity per ASC 815-40-35-2. As such, there is no value assigned to this extension.
On December 18, 2023, the Company extended the termination date of the ZNWAM warrant from December 31, 2023 to March 31, 2024. Zion considers this warrant as permanent equity per ASC 815-40-35-2. As such, there is no value assigned to this extension.
On March 28, 2024, the Company extended the termination date of the ZNWAM warrant from March 31, 2024 to December 31, 2024. Zion considers this warrant as permanent equity per ASC 815-40-35-2. As such, there is no value assigned to this extension.
On January 21, 2025, the Company extended the termination date of the ZNWAM warrant from December 31, 2024 to March 31, 2025. Zion considers this warrant as permanent equity per ASC 815-40-35-2. As such, there is no value assigned to this extension.
On March 18, 2025, the entire number of outstanding warrants of 4,376,000 were exercised at $.05 each for total proceeds to Zion of approximately $219,000. As of this report date, there are no ZNWAM warrants outstanding.
33
Table of Contents
Under our Plan, the Company under a Request For Waiver Program executed a Waiver Term Sheet of a unit program consisting of units of shares of stock and warrants to a participant. After conclusion of the program on June 18, 2021, the participant’s Plan account was credited with the number of shares of the Company’s Common Stock and warrants that were acquired. Each warrant provides the participant the opportunity to purchase one share of our Common Stock at a warrant exercise price of $.25. The warrant shall have the company notation of “ZNWAQ.” The warrants were not registered for trading on the OTCQB or any other stock market or trading market. The warrants were issued on May 5, 2022 and were exercisable through July 15, 2023 at a revised per share exercise price of $.05.
On June 16, 2023, the Company extended the termination date of the ZNWAQ warrant from July 15, 2023 to September 6, 2023. Zion considers this warrant as permanent equity per ASC 815-40-35-2. As such, there is no value assigned to this extension.
On August 21, 2023, the Company extended the termination date of the ZNWAQ warrant from September 6, 2023 to October 31, 2023. Zion considers this warrant as permanent equity per ASC 815-40-35-2. As such, there is no value assigned to this extension.
On October 19, 2023, the Company extended the termination date of the ZNWAQ warrant from October 31, 2023 to December 31, 2023. Zion considers this warrant as permanent equity per ASC 815-40-35-2. As such, there is no value assigned to this extension.
On December 18, 2023, the Company extended the termination date of the ZNWAQ warrant from December 31, 2023 to March 31, 2024. Zion considers this warrant as permanent equity per ASC 815-40-35-2. As such, there is no value assigned to this extension.
On March 28, 2024, the Company extended the termination date of the ZNWAQ warrant from March 31, 2024 to December 31, 2024. Zion considers this warrant as permanent equity per ASC 815-40-35-2. As such, there is no value assigned to this extension.
On January 21, 2025, the Company extended the termination date of the ZNWAQ warrant from December 31, 2024 to March 31, 2025. Zion considers this warrant as permanent equity per ASC 815-40-35-2. As such, there is no value assigned to this extension.
During March 2025, the entire number of outstanding warrants of 23,428,348 were exercised at $.05 each for total proceeds to Zion of approximately $1,171,000. As of this report date, there are no ZNWAQ warrants outstanding.
Under our Plan, the Company under a Request For Waiver Program executed a Waiver Term Sheet of a unit program consisting of units of shares of stock and warrants to a participant. After conclusion of the program on November 15, 2021, the participant’s Plan account was credited with the number of shares of the Company’s Common Stock and warrants that will be acquired. Each warrant provides the participant the opportunity to purchase one share of our Common Stock at a warrant exercise price of $1.00. The warrant shall have the company notation of “ZNWAS.” The warrants will not be registered for trading on the OTCQB or any other stock market or trading market. The warrants were issued and became exercisable on January 15, 2026 and continue to be exercisable through June 30, 2026 at a per share exercise price of $.25.
Under our Plan, the Company under a Request For Waiver Program executed a Waiver Term Sheet of a unit program consisting of units of shares of stock and warrants to a participant. After conclusion of the program on September 30, 2022, the participant’s Plan account was credited with the number of shares of the Company’s Common Stock and Warrants that were acquired. Each warrant provides the participant the opportunity to purchase one share of our Common Stock at a warrant exercise price of $.25. The warrant shall have the company notation of “ZNWAT.” The warrants will not be registered for trading on the OTCQB or any other stock market or trading market.
On August 27, 2025, the Company issued 9,019,652 warrants to one participant, with an expiration date of December 31, 2025. The exercise price of the ZNWAT warrant was lowered from $.25 to $.18.
On November 17, 2025, the Company extended the termination date of the ZNWAT warrant from December 31, 2025 to March 31, 2026. Zion considers this warrant as permanent equity per ASC 815-40-35-2. As such, there is no value assigned to this extension.
34
Table of Contents
Under our Plan, the Company under a Request For Waiver Program executed a Waiver Term Sheet of a unit program consisting of units of shares of stock and warrants to a participant. After conclusion of the program on December 31, 2022, the participant’s Plan account was credited with the number of shares of the Company’s Common Stock and Warrants that were acquired. Each warrant provides the participant the opportunity to purchase one share of our Common Stock at a warrant exercise price of $.25. The warrant shall have the company notation of “ZNWAU.” The warrants will not be registered for trading on the OTCQB or any other stock market or trading market. The warrants were issued and became exercisable on January 15, 2026 and continue to be exercisable through June 30, 2026 at a per share exercise price of $.25.
On January 1, 2024, the Company executed a Waiver Term Sheet with a participant consisting of shares of stock. After conclusion of the program on March 31, 2024, the participant’s Plan account was credited with the number of shares of the Company’s Common Stock that were acquired.
On April 1, 2024, the Company executed a Waiver Term Sheet of a unit program with a participant consisting of shares of stock and warrants.
The program was scheduled to terminate at the earlier of: (a) a maximum purchase of $10,000,000 through the DSPP, (b) October 1, 2024 or (c) the closing price of Zion’s stock is 15 cents per share for five (5) consecutive days. Additional terms of the Waiver Term Sheet included the pro-rata issuance of up to 5,000,000 warrants with an exercise price of $.25 per share and an expiration date of December 31, 2024, in the event the Participant purchases up to $5,000,000 of the Company’s stock by July 1, 2024.
On or around August 13, 2024, a first amendment to the Waiver Term Sheet was signed with the participant. The additional terms of the Waiver Term sheet included the pro-rata issuance of up to 10,000,000 warrants with an exercise price of $.25 per share and an expiration date of December 31, 2024, in the event the Participant purchases up to $10,000,000 of the Company’s stock by October 1, 2024.
On or around September 30, 2024, a second amendment to the Waiver Term Sheet was signed with the participant. The additional terms of the Waiver Term sheet provided for the pro-rata issuance of up to 10,000,000 warrants with an exercise price of $.25 per share and an expiration date of April 1, 2025, in the event the Participant purchases up to $10,000,000 of the Company’s stock by December 31, 2024.
On or around November 12, 2024, a third amendment to the Waiver Term Sheet was signed with the participant. The additional terms of the Waiver Term sheet included changing the provision for the program termination provided that the closing stock price is $.20 cents per share or higher for five (5) consecutive days.
On or around January 21, 2025, a fourth amendment to the Waiver Term Sheet was signed with the participant. The Pricing Plan of the program terminated at the earlier of: (a) a maximum purchase of $15,000,000 through the DSPP, (b) June 30, 2025 or (c) the closing price of Zion’s stock is 20 cents per share for five (5) consecutive days. Additional terms of the Waiver Term Sheet include the pro-rata issuance of up to 15,000,000 warrants with an exercise price of $.25 per share and an expiration date of December 31, 2025, in the event the Participant purchases up to $15,000,000 of the Company’s stock by September 30, 2025.
As of May 2, 2025, the above referenced Waiver Term Sheet was terminated as the participant completed the maximum purchase of $15,000,000 through the DSPP along with 15,000,000 warrants.
On May 19, 2025, a total of 15,000,000 warrants were issued to the participant with the internal designation as the “ZNWBB” warrants.
Under our Plan, the Company under a Request For Waiver Program executed a Waiver Term Sheet effective August 27, 2025 of shares of stock to a participant. This program had a maximum investment of $2,500,000. After conclusion of the program on around September 30, 2025, the participant’s Plan account was credited with the number of shares of the Company’s Common Stock that were acquired.
Under our Plan, the Company under a Request For Waiver Program executed a Waiver Term Sheet of a unit program effective November 4, 2025 consisting of shares of stock and warrants to a participant. This program had a maximum investment of $250,000 excluding the exercise of any warrants. After conclusion of the program on or around November 18, 2025, the participant’s Plan account was credited with the number of shares of the Company’s Common Stock and warrants that were acquired. Each warrant provided the participant the opportunity to purchase one share of our Common Stock at a warrant exercise price of $.05. The warrant shall have the company notation of “ZNWBC.” The warrants will not be registered for trading on the OTCQB or any other stock market or trading market. On November 19, 2025, a total of 1,519,136 warrants were issued to the participant with the internal designation of the “ZNWBC” warrants. The participant had until March 15, 2026 in which to exercise the warrants.
On November 26, 2025, all of the ZNWBC warrants were exercised, resulting in approximately $76,000 to the Company. As of that date, there were no ZNWBC warrants outstanding.
Under our Plan, the Company under a Request for Waiver Program executed a Waiver Term Sheet effective November 17, 2025 of shares of stock to a participant. This program had a maximum investment of $1,500,000 by December 31, 2025. After conclusion of the program, the participant’s Plan account was to be credited with the number of shares of the Company’s Common Stock that were acquired.
On December 22, 2025, a first amendment to the Waiver Term Sheet was executed whereby the date was extended from December 31, 2025 to January 31, 2026 in which to reach the maximum investment. As part of this first amendment, the termination date of the ZNWAT warrants was extended from December 31, 2025 to March 31, 2026.
On January 14, 2026, a second amendment to the Waiver Term Sheet was executed whereby the maximum investment was raised from $1,500,000 to $5,000,000. The termination date of January 31, 2026 remained in effect. Furthermore, this Waiver Term Sheet terminated on January 31, 2026 with the maximum investment being reached.
During the year ended December 31, 2025, Zion incurred $11,000 in equity issuance costs.
During the year ended December 31, 2024, Zion incurred $2,921,000 in equity issuance costs.
During 2025, two participants who participated in the “Request for Waiver” aspect of the DSPP contributed approximately 60% of the cash raised through the DSPP.
During 2024, one participant who participated in the “Request for Waiver” aspect of the DSPP contributed approximately 57% of the cash raised through the DSPP.
35
Table of Contents
Amendment No. 4 – New Unit Option under the Plan
Under our Plan, we provided a Unit Option with this Amendment No. 4. This Unit Option period began on November 6, 2023 and was scheduled to terminate on December 31, 2023. See Amendment No 5 below for data on an extension.