Zion Oil & Gas (ZNOG) 10-K/A 18 Mar 15 2014 FY Annual report (amended) Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Feb. 24, 2015	Jun. 30, 2014
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Entity Registrant Name	ZION OIL & GAS INC
Entity Central Index Key	1131312
Trading Symbol	zn
Current Fiscal Year End Date	-19
Amendment Flag	FALSE
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	31-Dec-14
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2014
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Filer Category	Smaller Reporting Company
Entity Public Float			$69.80
Entity Common Stock Shares Outstanding		35,859,482

Balance_Sheets

Balance Sheets (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$5,344	$10,414
Fixed short term bank deposits - restricted	1,298	1,387
Fixed short term time deposits	531
Prepaid expenses and other	280	294
Other receivables	181	45
Total current assets	7,634	12,140
Unproved oil and gas properties, full cost method	3,891	2,446
Property and equipment at cost Net of accumulated depreciation of $412 and $332	186	209
Other assets
Assets held for severance benefits	169	144
Total assets	11,880	14,939
Current liabilities
Accounts payable	132	138
Asset retirement obligation	163	483
Accrued liabilities	870	1,474
Total current liabilities	1,165	2,095
Provision for severance pay	195	177
Total liabilities	1,360	2,272
Commitments and contingencies (see Note 8)
Stockholders' equity
Common stock, par value $.01; Authorized: 100,000,000: Issued and outstanding: 35,755,304 and 34,005,696 shares at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 respectively	358	340
Additional paid-in capital	144,958	140,367
Accumulated deficit	-134,796	-128,040
Total stockholders' equity	10,520	12,667
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	$11,880	$14,939

Balance_Sheets_Parenthetical

Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Balance Sheets [Abstract]
Property and equipment, accumulated depreciation	$412	$332
Common stock, par value	$0.01	$0.01
Common stock, Authorized	100,000,000	100,000,000
Common stock, Issued	35,755,304	34,005,696
Common stock, outstanding	35,755,304	34,005,696

Statements_of_Operations

Statements of Operations (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Statements Of Operations [Abstract]
General and administrative	$4,142	$3,618
Other	2,541	2,216
Impairment of unproved oil and gas properties		3,289
Loss from operations	-6,683	-9,123
Other income (expense), net
Foreign exchange gain (loss)	-63	41
Financial income (expenses), net	-10	5
Loss before income taxes	-6,756	-9,077
Income taxes
Net loss	($6,756)	($9,077)
Net loss per share of common stock - basic and diluted (in US$)	($0.19)	($0.27)
Weighted-average shares outstanding - basic and diluted (in thousands)	35,060	33,049

Statements_of_Changes_In_Stock

Statements of Changes In Stockholders' Equity (USD $)	Total	Common Stock	Additional Paid-in Capital	Accumulated Deficit
In Thousands, except Share data
Beginning Balances at Dec. 31, 2012	$18,249	$328	$136,881	($118,963)
Beginning Balances (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2012		32,769,000
Funds received from sale of DSPP units and shares	2,478	11	2,467
Funds received from sale of DSPP units and shares (in shares)		1,099,000
Funds received from option exercises	1	1
Funds received from option exercises (in shares)		138,000
Value of options granted to employees, directors and others	1,019		1,019
Net loss	-9,077			-9,077
Ending Balances at Dec. 31, 2013	12,667	340	140,367	-128,040
Ending Balances (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2013		34,005,696
Funds received from sale of DSPP units and shares	3,387	17	3,370
Funds received from sale of DSPP units and shares (in shares)		1,662,000
Funds received from option exercises	1	1
Funds received from option exercises (in shares)		87,000
Value of options granted to employees, directors and others	1,221		1,221
Net loss	-6,756			-6,756
Ending Balances at Dec. 31, 2014	$10,520	$358	$144,958	($134,796)
Ending Balances (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2014		35,755,304

Statements_of_Cash_Flows

Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Cash flows from operating activities
Net loss	($6,756)	($9,077)
Adjustments required to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities:
Depreciation	80	86
Cost of options issued to employees, directors & others	1,129	953
Interest on short term bank deposits	25	-20
Impairment of unproved oil and gas properties		3,289
Change in assets and liabilities, net:
Prepaid expenses and other	14	100
Change in other receivables	-136	562
Severance pay, net	-7	-52
Accounts payable	-8	2
Accrued liabilities	-464	-104
Asset retirement obligation	-320	-387
Net cash used in operating activities	-6,443	-4,648
Cash flows from investing activities
Investment in short term bank deposits	-467	-1,083
Acquisition of property and equipment	-35	-57
Investment in unproved oil and gas properties	-1,513	-1,260
Net cash used in investing activities	-2,015	-2,400
Cash flows from financing activities
Proceeds from sale of stock and exercise of options	3,388	2,479
Net cash provided by financing activities	3,388	2,479
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents	-5,070	-4,569
Cash and cash equivalents - beginning of period	10,414	14,983
Cash and cash equivalents - end of period	5,344	10,414
Non-cash investing and financing activities:
Cost of options capitalized to oil & gas properties	92	66
Unpaid investments in oil & gas properties	131	291
Unpaid acquisitions of property and equipment	$22

Nature_of_Operations_and_Basis

Nature of Operations and Basis of Presentation	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Nature of Operations and Basis of Presentation [Abstract]
Nature of Operations and Basis of Presentation	Note 1 - Nature of Operations and Basis of Presentation
	A. Nature of Operations
	Zion Oil & Gas, Inc., a Delaware corporation (“we,” “our,” “Zion” or the “Company”) is an oil and gas exploration company with a history of more than 14 years of oil & gas exploration in Israel. As of December 31, 2014, the Company has no revenues from its oil and gas operations.
	Exploration Rights/Exploration Activities
	Zion currently holds one active petroleum exploration license onshore Israel, the Megiddo-Jezreel License (~ 99,000 acres). We have now selected the specific location of our next drilling prospect well location.
	Megiddo-Jezreel Petroleum License
	The Megiddo-Jezreel License (No. 401) was awarded on December 3, 2013 for a three-year primary term through December 2, 2016 with the possibility of additional one-year extensions up to a maximum of seven years. The Megiddo-Jezreel License is onshore, south and west of the Sea of Galilee.
	Under the terms of this License, the Company has until July 1, 2015 to identify and submit a drilling prospect, enter into a drilling contract by October 1, 2015, and begin drilling or “spud” a well by December 1, 2015.
	In September 2014, Israel’s Petroleum Commissioner notified Zion that the Petroleum Council, a 10-member board that he chairs, had recommended approval of our application to merge the southernmost portion of our Jordan Valley License into our Megiddo-Jezreel License. We currently await final approval of the merged license from Israel’s Energy Minister.
	Zion’s Former Jordan Valley License
	On April 10, 2014, Zion filed an application to merge the southernmost portion of the Jordan Valley License into the Megiddo-Jezreel License. The Jordan Valley License (~ 55,845 acres) expired in April 2014 as Zion did not seek an extension beyond its three-year primary term. We contend that there is significant exploration potential in this geologically linked petroleum system that overlaps the boundaries between the present Megiddo-Jezreel and Jordan Valley Licenses. For a variety of reasons, including the results of the newly reprocessed and recently acquired seismic data, the Company has now fully focused its exploration strategy on the Megiddo-Jezreel License as will be merged with the southern portion of the former Jordan Valley License area.
	Zion’s Former Asher-Menashe License and Former Joseph License
	On May 9, 2014 the Company submitted its Final Completion and Plugging Report for the Elijah #3 well, in the Asher-Menashe License. The Asher-Menashe License expired on June 9, 2014 as its full seven year term ended. The Joseph License expired on October 10, 2013, after our final extension. On November 18, 2013, Zion submitted our Final Plugging Report for the Ma’anit Rehoboth #2 and Ma’anit Joseph #3 wells, in the Joseph License. With this, Zion has plugged all of its wells but it acknowledges its obligation to complete the abandonment of these well sites in accordance with guidance from the Environmental Ministry and local officials.
	B. Basis of Presentation
	To date, the Company has not achieved a discovery of either oil or gas in commercial quantities. The Company incurs cash outflows from operations and at this time all exploration activities and overhead expenses are financed by way of equity issuance. The recoverability of the costs incurred to date is uncertain and dependent upon achieving significant commercial production.
	The Company’s ability to continue as a going concern is dependent upon obtaining the necessary financing to undertake further exploration and development activities and generate profitable operations from its oil and natural
	gas interests in the future. The Company’s current operations are dependent upon the adequacy of its current assets to meet its current expenditure requirements and the accuracy of management’s estimates of those requirements. Should those estimates be materially incorrect, the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern may be impaired. The 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. During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company incurred a net loss of approximately $6.8 million and had an accumulated deficit of approximately $134.8 million. These matters raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern.
	The Company expects to incur additional significant expenditures to further its exploration programs. Management is of the opinion that its currently available cash resources are sufficient to finance its plan of operations through November 2015. To carry out further planned operations beyond that date, the Company must raise additional funds through additional equity raises. There can be no assurance that this capital will be available and if it is not, the Company may be forced to curtail or cease exploration and development expenditures. The financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty.

Summary_of_Significant_Account

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	Note 2 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
	A. Financial Statements in United States Dollars
	The currency of the primary economic environment in which the operations of the Company are conducted is the United States dollar (“dollar”). Therefore, the dollar has been determined to be the Company’s functional currency. Non-dollar transactions and balances have been translated into dollars in accordance with the principles set forth in Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 830 “Foreign Currency Matters.” Transactions in foreign currency (primarily in New Israeli Shekels – “NIS”) are recorded at the exchange rate as of the transaction date. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currency are translated on the basis of the representative rate of exchange at the balance sheet date. Non-monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currency are stated at historical exchange rates. All exchange gains and losses from re-measurement of monetary balance sheet items denominated in non-dollar currencies are reflected in the statement of operations as they arise.
	B. Cash and Cash Equivalents
	The Company maintains cash balances with four banks, of which two banks are located in the United States, one in the United Kingdom, and one in Israel and money market mutual funds. For purposes of the statement of cash flows and balance sheet, the Company considers all highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents. At times, the Company maintains deposits in financial institutions in excess of federally insured limits. The Company has not experienced any losses in such accounts and does not believe it is exposed to any significant credit risk on cash.
	C. Fixed Short Term time deposits
	Interest bearing deposits for a period which exceeds 3 months but not more than 12 months and are not restricted are classified as Fixed Short Term time deposits.
	D. Oil and Gas Properties and Impairment
	The Company follows 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 loss from continuing operations before income taxes and the adjusted carrying amount of the unproved properties is amortized on the unit-of-production method.
	The Company’s oil and gas property represents 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. Impairment requiring a charge to expense may be indicated through evaluation of drilling results, relinquishing drilling rights or other information.
	During the year ended December 31, 2014, and 2013, the Company recorded a non-cash impairment charge of $nil and $3,289,000, respectively of its unproved oil and gas properties (see Note 4).
	Currently, the Company has no economically recoverable reserves and no amortization base. The Company’s unproved oil and gas properties consist of capitalized exploration costs of $3,891,000 and $2,446,000 as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
	E. Property and Equipment
	Property and equipment other than oil and gas property and equipment is recorded at cost and depreciated over its estimated useful lives of three to fourteen years. Depreciation charged to expense amounted to $80,000 and $86,000 for the years ended December 31, 2014, and 2013, respectively.
	F. Assets Held for Severance Benefits
	Assets held for employee severance benefits represent contributions to severance pay funds and insurance policies that are recorded at their current redemption value.
	G. Use of Estimates
	The preparation of the accompanying financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions about future events. These estimates and the underlying assumptions affect the amounts of assets and liabilities reported, disclosures about contingent assets and liabilities, and reported amounts of revenues and expenses. Such estimates include the valuation of unproved oil and gas properties, deferred tax assets, asset retirement obligations and legal contingencies. These estimates and assumptions are based on management’s best estimates and judgment. Management evaluates its estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis using historical experience and other factors, including the current economic environment, which management believes to be reasonable under the circumstances. The Company adjusts such estimates and assumptions when facts and circumstances dictate. Illiquid credit markets, volatile equity, foreign currency, and energy markets have combined to increase the uncertainty inherent in such estimates and assumptions. As future events and their effects cannot be determined with precision, actual results could differ significantly from these estimates. Changes in those estimates resulting from continuing changes in the economic environment will be reflected in the financial statements in future periods.
	H. Income Taxes
	Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss and tax credit carry forwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled (see note 7). The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in the statements of operations in the period that includes the enactment date.
	Based on ASC 740-10-25-6 “Income Taxes”, the Company recognizes the effect of income tax positions only if those positions are more likely than not of being sustained. Recognized income tax positions are measured at the largest amount that is greater than 50% likely of being realized. Changes in recognition or measurement are reflected in the period in which the change in judgment occurs. The Company accounts for interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits, if and when required, as part of income tax expense in the statements of operations. No liability for unrecognized tax benefits was recognized as of December 31, 2014 and 2013.
	I. Environmental Costs and Loss Contingencies
	Liabilities for loss contingencies, including environmental remediation costs not within the scope of FASB ASC Subtopic 410-20, Asset Retirement Obligations and Environmental Obligations – Asset Retirement Obligations, arising from claims, assessments, litigation, fines, and penalties and other sources, are recorded when probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the assessment and/or remediation can be reasonably estimated. Legal costs incurred in connection with loss contingencies are expensed as incurred. Recoveries of environmental remediation costs from third parties that are probable of realization are separately recorded as assets, and are not offset against the related environmental liability.
	Accruals for estimated losses from environmental remediation obligations generally are recognized no later than completion of the remedial feasibility study. Such accruals are adjusted as further information develops or circumstances change. Costs of expected future expenditures for environmental remediation obligations are not discounted to their present value.
	J. Asset Retirement Obligation
	Obligations for dismantlement, restoration and removal of facilities and tangible equipment at the end of oil and gas property’s useful life are recorded based on the estimate of the fair value of the liabilities in the period in which the obligation is incurred. This requires the use of management’s estimates with respect to future abandonment costs, inflation, market risk premiums, useful life and cost of capital. The estimate of asset retirement obligations does not give consideration to the value the related assets could have to other parties, although it does take into account estimated residual salvage values. The obligation is recorded if sufficient information about the timing and (or) method of settlement is available to reasonably estimate fair value (see note 8B).
	K. Net Loss per Share Data
	Basic and diluted net loss per share of common stock, par value $0.01 per share is presented in conformity with ASC 260-10 “Earnings Per Share.” Diluted net loss per share is the same as basic net loss per share as the inclusion of 4,653,986 and 3,190,225 common stock equivalents in 2014 and 2013 respectively, would be anti-dilutive.
	L. Stock Based Compensation
	The Company follows ASC 718-20-55, “Compensation – Stock Compensation” (“ASC 718-20-55”), which requires measurement of compensation cost for all stock-based awards based upon the fair value on date of grant and recognition of compensation over the service period for awards expected to vest. Under this method, the Company has recognized compensation cost for awards granted beginning January 1, 2006, based on the Black-Scholes option-pricing method.
	The Company accounts for equity instruments issued to non-employees in accordance with the provisions of ASC 505, “Equity,” using a fair-value approach.
	As noted, the value of stock option grants is recognized as a compensation expense, on a graded-vesting basis, over the requisite service period of the entire award, net of estimated forfeitures unless vested.
	M. Fair Value Measurements
	The Company’s financial instruments include mainly cash and cash equivalents, short-term time deposits, other receivables, prepaid expenses, assets held for severance benefits, and accounts payable. The carrying amounts of these financial instruments approximate their fair value.
	N. Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
	During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company has elected to early adopt Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2014-10, Development Stage Entities (Topic 915): Elimination of Certain Financial Reporting Requirements. The adoption of this ASU allows the Company to remove the inception to date information and all references to development stage.
	We do not believe that the adoption of any other recently issued accounting pronouncements in 2014 had a significant impact on our financial position, results of operations, or cash flow.
	O. Reclassifications
	Certain reclassifications have been made to conform the prior period’s financial information to the current period’s presentation.

Provision_For_Severance_Pay

Provision For Severance Pay	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Provision for Severance Pay [Abstract]
Provision for Severance Pay	Note 3 - Provision for Severance Pay
	Israeli law generally requires payment of severance pay upon dismissal of an employee or upon termination of employment in certain other circumstances. The following plans relate to the employees in Israel:
	A.       The liability in respect of certain of the Company’s employees is discharged in part by participating in a defined contribution pension plan and making regular deposits with recognized pension funds.
	The deposits are based on certain components of the salaries of the said employees. The custody and management of the amounts so deposited are independent of the Company’s control and accordingly such amounts funded (included in expenses on an accrual basis) and related liabilities are not reflected in the balance sheet.
	B.       The Company’s liability for severance pay for its Israeli employees is calculated pursuant to Israeli severance pay law based on the most recent salary of the employee multiplied by the number of years of employment, as of the balance sheet date. Employees are entitled to one month’s salary for each year of employment, or a portion thereof. Certain senior executives are entitled to receive additional severance pay. The Company’s liability for all of its Israeli employees is partly provided for by monthly deposits in insurance policies and the remainder by an accrual in the financial statements. The value of these policies is recorded as an asset in the Company’s balance sheet.
	The deposited funds include profits/loss accumulated up to the balance sheet date. The value of the deposited funds is based on current redemption value of these policies.
	C.       Withdrawals from the funds may be made only upon termination of employment.
	D.       As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company has a provision for severance pay of $195,000 and $177,000, respectively, of which all was long-term. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company has $169,000 and $144,000, respectively, deposited in funds managed by major Israeli financial institutions which are earmarked to cover severance pay liability. Such deposits are not considered to be “plan assets” and are therefore included in other assets.

Unproved_Oil_and_Gas_Propertie

Unproved Oil and Gas Properties, Full Cost Method	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Unproved Oil and Gas Properties, Full Cost Method [Abstract]
Unproved Oil and Gas Properties, Full Cost Method	Note 4 - Unproved Oil and Gas Properties, Full Cost Method
	Unproved oil and gas properties, under the full cost method, are comprised as follows:
		31-Dec-14		31-Dec-13
		US$ thousands		US$ thousands
	Excluded from amortization base:
	Inventory, and other operational related costs		895		929
	Capitalized salary costs		916		602
	Legal costs, license fees and other preparation costs		2,079		910
	Other costs		1		5
			3,891		2,446
	Impairment of unproved oil and gas properties comprised as follows:
		For the year ended December 31,
		2014		2013
		US$ thousands		US$ thousands
	Drilling operations, completion costs and other related costs		—		480
	Capitalized salary costs		—		488
	Legal costs, license fees and other preparation costs		—		2,320
	Other costs		—		1
			—		3,289

Accrued_Liabilities

Accrued Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accrued Liabilities [Abstract]
Accrued Liabilities	Note 5 – Accrued Liabilities
	Accrued liabilities are comprised as follows:
		31-Dec-14		31-Dec-13
		US$ thousands		US$ thousands
	Employees related		120		102
	Institutions & vendors		509		993
	Other		241		379
			870		1,474

Stockholders_Equity

Stockholders' Equity	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Stockholders' Equity	Note 6 - Stockholders’ Equity
	A. Replacement Registration Statement S-3/A and Prospectus Supplement for the Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan (“DSPP”)
	On March 13, 2014 the Company filed an S-3/A Form that is part of a replacement registration statement that was filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) using a “shelf” registration process. From time to time, the Company may offer up to an aggregate of approximately $119,850,000 of any combination of the securities described in this prospectus, either individually or in units.
	On March 31, 2014, the Company filed with the SEC the prospectus supplement dated as of March 27, 2014 and accompanying base prospectus dated March 27, 2014 (collectively, the “Prospectus”) relating to the Company’s DSPP.
	The Prospectus forms a part of the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-3/A (File No. 333-193336), as amended, which was declared effective by the SEC on March 27, 2014 (the “Registration Statement”).
	Under the DSPP, the Company provided (a) shares (each a “Share” and collectively the “Shares”) of common stock, par value $0.01 per share (the “Common Stock”), and (b), through June 30, 2014, units (the “Units”) of the Company’s securities with each unit comprised of (i) one share of Common Stock and (ii) a warrant to purchase an additional share of the Company’s Common Stock at an exercise price of $2.00 per share (each a “Warrant” and collectively the “Warrants”; together with the Shares and the Units the “Securities”). The Securities were provided by the Company in accordance with the terms of the DSPP as described in the Prospectus.
	On May 30, 2014 the Company extended the expiration date for the Unit program under its DSPP to December 31, 2014. Accordingly, the Warrants “ZNWAA” became first exercisable on the 31st day following the Unit Option Termination Date (on February 2, 2015) and continue to be exercisable through January 31, 2020 at a per share exercise price of $2.00.
	The extension was made, in part, to allow interested investors to utilize a new and more convenient electronic enrolment procedure with the TeleCheck Internet Check Acceptance service as a payment method and expanded procedures for foreign participants.
	As of December 31, 2014 the Company and its transfer agents had collected together approximately $3,387,000 and $5,865,000 in the year ended December 31, 2014 and from the DSPP’s inception date in March 2013 to December 31, 2014, respectively. As a result, the Company issued for the year ended December 31, 2014 and from the DSPP inception date to December 31, 2014 a total of 1,661,692 and 2,761,178 shares of its common stock. Issued units and shares for the year ended December 31, 2014 and from the DSPP inception date to December 31, 2014 are comprised of 773,318 and 1,564,293 units (unit comprised of (i) one share of common stock and (ii) a warrant), respectively, and 888,374 and 1,196,885 shares, respectively.
	B. 2005 Stock Option Plan
	In 2005, a stock option plan (the “2005 Plan”) was adopted by the Company, pursuant to which 1,000,000 shares of common stock are reserved for issuance to officers, directors, employees and consultants. The 2005 Plan is administered by the Board of Directors or one or more committees appointed by the board (the “2005 Plan Administrator”).
	The 2005 Plan contemplates the issuance of stock options by the Company both as a private company and as a publicly traded company and is available to residents of the United States, the State of Israel and other jurisdictions as determined by the 2005 Plan Administrator. Awards of stock options under the 2005 Plan are made pursuant to an agreement between the Company and each grantee. The agreement will, among other provisions, specify the number of shares subject to the option, intended tax qualifications, the exercise price, applicable vesting provisions and the term of the stock option grant, all of which are determined on behalf of the Company by the 2005 Plan Administrator. The 2005 Plan remains in effect for a term of ten years unless terminated or extended according to its provisions.
	During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company granted the following options from the 2005 Plan, to purchase:
	i.         25,000 shares of common stock to one senior officer at an exercise price of $0.01. The options vest in equal quarterly instalments over four consecutive quarters, beginning with the quarter ended March 31, 2014 and are exercisable through March 31, 2024. The fair value of the options at the date of grant amounted to $47,524.
	ii.        20,000 shares of common stock to one senior officer at an exercise price of $0.01. The options vested upon grant and are exercisable through March 31, 2024. The fair value of the options at the date of grant amounted to $38,018.
	iii.       10,000 shares of common stock to one senior officer at an exercise price of $0.01. The options vested upon grant and are exercisable through March 31, 2024. The fair value of the options at the date of grant amounted to $19,009.
	iv.      10,000 shares of common stock to one senior officer at an exercise price of $0.01. The options vest in equal quarterly instalments over four consecutive quarters, beginning with the quarter ended June 30, 2014 and are exercisable through April 1, 2024. The fair value of the options at the date of grant amounted to $19,009.
	v.       45,000 shares of common stock to one senior officer, other staff members and service providers at an exercise price of $0.01. The options vested upon grant and are exercisable through June 11, 2024. The fair value of the options at the date of grant amounted to $93,228.
	vi.      1,693 shares of common stock to one staff member at an exercise price of $1.67. The options vested upon grant and are exercisable through October 1, 2024. The fair value of the options at the date of grant amounted to $1,662.
	vii.     25,000 shares of common stock to one senior officer at an exercise price of $0.01. The options vested upon grant and are exercisable through December 1, 2024. The fair value of the options at the date of grant amounted to $39,019.
	During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company granted the following options under the 2005 Plan to purchase:
	i.         45,000 shares of common stock to one senior officer, other staff members and service providers at an exercise price of $0.01. The options vested upon grant and are exercisable through June 28, 2023. The fair value of the options at the date of grant amounted to $100,425.
	ii.        197,500 shares of common stock to senior officers, non-employee directors, other staff members and service providers at an exercise price of $0.01. The options vested upon grant and are exercisable through November 11, 2023. The fair value of the options at the date of grant amounted to $304,430.
	C. 2011 Equity Incentive Plan and 2011 Non-Employee Directors Stock Option Plan
	In June 2011, the Company’s shareholders authorized the adoption of the Zion Oil & Gas, Inc. 2011 Equity Incentive Plan for employees and consultants (the “2011 Plan”), initially reserving for issuance thereunder 2,000,000 shares of common stock.
	The 2011 Plan provides for the grant of incentive stock options, nonqualified stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, bonus stock, awards in lieu of cash obligations, other stock-based awards and performance units. The 2011 plan also permits cash payments under certain conditions.
	The compensation committee of the Board of Directors is responsible for determining the type of award, when and to whom awards are granted, the number of shares and the terms of the awards and exercise prices. The options are exercisable for a period not to exceed ten years from the date of grant.
	During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company granted the following options under the 2011 Plan to purchase:
	534,000 shares of common stock to senior officers, other staff members, and service providers at an exercise price of $1.67. The options vested upon grant and are exercisable through October 1, 2024. The fair value of the options at the date of grant amounted to $562,660.
	During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company granted the following options under the 2011 Plan to purchase:
	25,000 shares of common stock were granted to one senior officer at an exercise price of $0.01. The options, granted pursuant to the terms of the officer’ respective employment agreement, vested upon grant and are exercisable through December 31, 2023. The fair value of the options on their respective dates of grant amounted to $35,024.
	In June 2011, the Company’s shareholders authorized the adoption of the Zion Oil & Gas, Inc. 2011 Non‑Employee Directors Stock Option Plan for non-employee directors (the “2011 Directors’ Plan”), initially reserving for issuance thereunder 1,000,000 share of common stock. Under the 2011 Directors’ Plan, only non‑qualified options may be issued, and they will be exercisable for a period of six years from the date of grant.
	The Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors is responsible for determining the type of award, when to grant awards, to whom awards are granted, the number of shares and the terms of the awards and exercise prices. The options are exercisable for a period not to exceed six years from the date of grant.
	During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company granted the following options from the 2011 Directors’ Plan, to purchase:
	i.         25,000 shares of common stock to one non-employee director at an exercise price of $1.95. The options vested upon grant and are exercisable through April 2, 2020. The fair value of the options at the date of grant amounted to $25,085.
	ii.        390,000 shares of common stock to nine non-employee director at an exercise price of $1.67. The options vested upon grant and are exercisable through October 1, 2020. The fair value of the options at the date of grant amounted to $307,763.
	During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company granted the following options from the 2011 Directors’ Plan, to purchase:
	i.         25,000 shares of common stock to one non-employee director at an exercise price of $1.73. The options vested upon grant and are exercisable through January 9, 2019. The fair value of the options at the date of grant amounted to $19,099.
	ii.        25,000 shares of common stock to one non-employee director at an exercise price of $2.28. The options vested upon grant and are exercisable through July 10, 2019. The fair value of the options at the date of grant amounted to $27,808.
	iii.       25,000 shares of common stock to one non-employee director at an exercise price of $1.96. The options vested upon grant and are exercisable through September 3, 2019. The fair value of the options at the date of grant amounted to $24,196.
	D. Warrants and Options
	The Company has reserved 4,653,986 shares of common stock as of December 31, 2014 for the exercise of warrants and options to employees and non-employees, of which 3,087,193 are exercisable. These warrants and options could potentially dilute basic earnings per share in future years. The warrants and options exercise prices and expiration dates are as follows:
		Exercise Price			Number of Shares		Expiration Date		Warrants or Options
		US$
	To non-employees
			0.01			20,000		11-Nov-23		Options
			0.01			10,000		11-Jun-24		Options
			1.67			115,000		1-Oct-24		Options
			1.7			130,000		20-Dec-22		Options
			2.61			77,000		4-Dec-22		Options
	To employees and directors
			0.01			20,000		31-Jan-20		Options
			0.01			5,000		28-Jun-23		Options
			0.01			51,000		11-Nov-23		Options
			0.01			25,000		31-Dec-23		Options
			0.01			50,000		31-Mar-24		Options
			0.01			10,000		11-Jun-24		Options
			0.01			25,000		1-Dec-24		Options
			1.67			390,000		1-Oct-20		Options
			1.67			420,693		1-Oct-24		Options
			1.7			137,500		21-Dec-18		Options
			1.7			239,500		20-Dec-22		Options
			1.73			25,000		9-Jan-19		Options
			1.82			25,000		13-Jun-17		Options
		1.86			25,000		3-Dec-18		Options
		1.95			25,000		April 02,2020		Options
		1.96			25,000		3-Sep-19		Options
		2.28			25,000		10-Jul-19		Options
		2.61			237,500		4-Dec-17		Options
		2.61			939,500		4-Dec-21		Options
		4.45			25,000		26-Jan-16		Options
		4.55			15,000		31-Jan-16		Options
To investors
		2			1,564,293		31-Jan-20		Warrants
		1.99	*		4,653,986
___________________
* Weighted Average
The stock option transactions since January 1, 2013 are shown in the table below:
	Number of			Weighted Average
	shares			exercise price
				US$
Outstanding, December 31, 2012		2,392,000			2.41
Changes during 2013 to:
Granted to employees, officers, directors and others		342,500			0.44
Expired/Cancelled/Forfeited		(197,750	)		2.71
Exercised		(137,500	)		0.01
Outstanding, December 31, 2013		2,399,250			2.24
Changes during 2014 to:
Granted to employees, officers, directors and others		1,085,693			1.47
Expired/Cancelled/Forfeited		(308,250	)		2.67
Exercised		(87,000	)		0.01
Outstanding, December 31, 2014		3,089,693			1.99
Exercisable, December 31, 2014		3,087,193			1.99
The aggregate intrinsic value of options exercised during 2014 and 2013 was approximately $170,000 and $224,000 respectively.
The aggregate intrinsic value of the outstanding options and warrants as of December 31, 2014 totalling 4,653,986 was approximately $290,000.
The following table summarizes information about stock options outstanding as of December 31, 2014:
Shares underlying outstanding options (non-vested)								Shares underlying outstanding options (fully vested)
Range of exercise price	Number outstanding			Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)		Weighted Average Exercise price		Range of exercise price		Number Outstanding		Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)		Weighted Average Exercise price
US$						US$		US$						US$
0.01		2,500			9.24		0.01		0.01		25,000		9.93		0.01
—		—			—		—		0.01		20,000		9.45		0.01
—		—			—		—		0.01		47,500		9.24		0.01
—		—			—		—		0.01		25,000		9		0.01
—		—			—		—		0.01		71,000		8.87		0.01
—		—			—		—		0.01		2,000		8.5		0.01
—		—			—		—		0.01		20,000		5.09		0.01
—		—			—		—		1.67		390,000		5.76		1.67
—		—			—		—		1.67		535,693		9.76		1.67
—		—			—		—		1.7		369,500		7.98		1.7
—		—			—		—		1.7		137,500		3.98		1.7
—		—			—		—		1.73		25,000		4.03		1.73
—		—			—		—		1.82		25,000		2.45		1.82
—		—			—		—		1.86		25,000		3.93		1.86
Shares underlying outstanding options (non-vested)								Shares underlying outstanding options (fully vested)
Range of exercise price	Number outstanding			Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)		Weighted Average Exercise price		Range of exercise price		Number Outstanding		Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)		Weighted Average Exercise price
US$						US$		US$						US$
—		—			—		—		1.95		25,000		5.26		1.95
—		—			—		—		1.96		25,000		4.68		1.96
—		—			—		—		2.28		25,000		4.53		2.28
—		—			—		—		2.61		237,500		2.93		2.61
—		—			—		—		2.61		1,016,500		6.93		2.61
—		—			—		—		4.45		25,000		1.07		4.45
—		—			—		—		4.55		15,000		1.08		4.55
0.01		2,500					0.01		0.01—4.55		3,087,193				1.99
Granted to employees
The following table sets forth information about the weighted-average fair value of options granted to employees and directors during the year, using the Black Scholes option-pricing model and the weighted-average assumptions used for such grants:
	For the year ended December 31,
	2014			2013
Weighted-average fair value of underlying stock at grant date	$	1.7		$	1.78
Dividend yields		—			—
Expected volatility		70%-82%			67%-82%
Risk-free interest rates		0.94%-1.74%			0.37%-1.75%
Expected lives (in years)		3.00-5.50			3.00-5.00
Weighted-average grant date fair value	$	1.01		$	1.43
Granted to non-employees
The following table sets forth information about the weighted-average fair value of options granted to non‑employees during the year, using the Black Scholes option-pricing model and the weighted-average assumptions used for such grants:
	For the year ended December 31,
	2014			2013
Weighted-average fair value of underlying stock at grant date	$	1.73		$	1.73
Dividend yields		—			—
Expected volatility		75%			75%-76%
Risk-free interest rates		2.42%-2.65%			2.52%-2.77%
Expected lives (in years)		10			10
Weighted-average grant date fair value	$	1.43		$	1.73
The risk-free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant for periods corresponding with the expected life of the options.
The expected life represents the weighted average period of time that options granted are expected to be outstanding. The expected life of the options granted to employees and directors is calculated based on the Simplified Method as allowed under Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 110 (“SAB 110”), giving consideration to the contractual term of the options and their vesting schedules, as the Company does not have sufficient historical exercise data at this time. The expected life of the option granted to non-employees equals their contractual term. In the case of an extension of the option life, the calculation was made on the basis of the extended life.
E. Compensation Cost for Warrant and Option Issuances
The following table sets forth information about the compensation cost of warrant and option issuances recognized for employees and directors:
For the year ended December 31,
2014	2013
US$	US$
1,000,000		773,000
The following table sets forth information about the compensation cost of warrant and option issuances recognized for non-employees:
For the year ended December 31,
2014	2013
US$	US$
221,000		246,000
As of December 31, 2014, there was $1,000 of unrecognized compensation cost, related to non-vested stock options granted under the Company’s 2005 Stock Option Plan. That cost is expected to be recognized during 2015.
F. Warrant Descriptions
The price and the expiration dates for the series of warrants to investors are as follows:
	Period of Grant			US$		Expiration Date
ZNWAA Warrants		March 2013 – December 2014			2		January 31, 2020

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Note 7 - Income Taxes
	The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant portions of the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities at December 31, 2014 and 2013 are presented below:
		December 31, 2014			December 31, 2013
		US$ thousands			US$ thousands
	Deferred tax assets:
	Net operating loss carry forwards		43,892			41,230
	Other		1,688			1,577
	Total gross deferred tax assets		45,580			42,807
	Less – valuation allowance		(44,259	)		(41,967	)
	Net deferred tax assets		1,321			840
	Deferred tax liabilities :
	Property and equipment		2			(8	)
	Unproved oil and gas properties		(1,323	)		(832	)
	Total gross deferred tax liabilities		(1,321	)		(840	)
	Net deferred tax asset		—			—
	In assessing the likelihood of the realization of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets, including net operating losses, is dependent upon the generation of future taxable income during the periods in which those temporary differences become deductible and tax carry forwards are utilizable.
	Management considers the scheduled reversal of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, and tax planning strategies in making this assessment. In order to fully realize the deferred tax asset, the Company will need to generate future taxable income of approximately $129,095,000 prior to the expiration of some of the net operating loss carry forwards between 2022 and 2034. Based upon the level of historical taxable losses since the Company’s inception, management believes that the Company will not likely realize the benefits of these deductible differences and tax carry forwards and thus, full valuation allowances have been recorded at December 31, 2014 and 2013.
	At December 31, 2014, the Company has available federal net operating loss carry forwards of approximately $129,095,000 to reduce future U.S. taxable income. These amounts expire from 2022 to 2034.
	Income earned from activities in Israel is subject to regular Israeli tax rates. For Israeli tax purposes, exploration costs on unproved properties are expensed. Tax losses can be carried forward indefinitely. At December 31, 2014, the Company has available net operating loss carry forwards of approximately $91,036,000 to reduce future Israeli taxable income.
	Reconciliation between the theoretical tax benefit on pre-tax reported (loss) and the actual income tax expense:
		Year ended			Year ended
		December 31, 2014			December 31, 2013
		US$ thousands			US$ thousands
	Pre-tax loss as reported		(6,756	)		(9,077	)
	U.S. statutory tax rate		34	%		34	%
	Theoretical tax expense		(2,297	)		(3,086	)
	Increase in income tax expense resulting from:
	Permanent differences		5			9
	Other differences		—			1
	Change in valuation allowance		2,292			3,076
	Income tax expense		—			—
	The Company has no material unrecognized tax benefit which would favorably affect the effective income tax rate in future periods and do not believe there will be any significant increases or decreases within the next twelve months. No interest or penalties have been accrued.
	The Company has not received final tax assessments since incorporation. In accordance with the US tax regulations, the U.S. federal income tax returns remain subject to examination for the years beginning in 2011.
	The Israeli branch has not received final tax assessments since incorporation. In accordance with the Israeli tax regulations, tax returns submitted up to and including the 2010 tax year can be regarded as final.

Commitments_and_Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	Note 8 - Commitments and Contingencies
	A. 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. In the opinion of management, no
	pending or known threatened claims, actions or proceedings against the Company are expected to have a material adverse effect on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows. However, the Company cannot predict with certainty the outcome or effect of any such litigation or investigatory matters or any other pending litigation or claims. There can be no assurance as to the ultimate outcome of any such lawsuits and investigations.
	B. Asset Retirement
	The Company currently estimates that the costs of plugging and decommissioning of the exploratory wells drilled to date in the Asher-Menashe and Joseph License areas to be approximately $163,000 based on current cost rather than Net Present Value. Liabilities for expenditures are recorded when environmental assessment and/or remediation is probable and the timing and costs can be reasonably estimated.
	Changes in Asset Retirement Obligations were as follows:
		For the year ended December 31,
		2014			2013
		US$ thousands			US$ thousands
	Asset Retirement Obligations, Beginning Balance		483			870
	Liabilities Settled		(320	)		(276	)
	Revision of Estimate		—			(111	)
	Retirement Obligations, Ending Balance		163			483
	Liabilities of approximately $320,000 were settled; those liabilities were related to the Asher-Menashe and Joseph License areas.
	Revisions were primarily due to changes in estimated costs for future Plug & Abandonment activities related to the Asher-Menashe and Joseph License areas.
	C. Environmental and Other Regulatory Matters
	The Company is engaged in oil and gas exploration and production and may become subject to certain liabilities as they relate to environmental cleanup of well sites or other environmental restoration procedures and other obligations as they relate to the drilling of oil and gas wells or the operation thereof.
	In July 2013, the Environmental Ministry published: “Environmental Guidelines for the preparation of an environmental document supplementary to a license for searching – experimental drilling and land extraction tests.” This document extensively details the requirements for a supplemental environmental document to an oil and gas exploration plan.
	On December 3, 2013, the State of Israel’s Petroleum Commissioner awarded the Company the Megiddo-Jezreel Petroleum Exploration License No. 401. Subsequently, the Company secured a US $930,000 bank guarantee in accordance with the performance guarantee guidelines. Consequently, Zion believes it has met the requirements of the June 2012 onshore exploratory licensing guidelines and the October 2012 performance guarantee guidelines.
	On February 6, 2014, the Ministry of National Infrastructures, Energy and Water Resources (the “Energy Ministry”) issued proposed guidelines for bank guarantees and insurance requirements with respect to oil and gas rights. Under these guidelines, applicants for and existing holders of exploration rights will be required to submit certain bank guarantees and insurance policies that were not previously required.
	On September 17, 2014, the proposed guidelines became effective and the Energy Ministry issued a guidance document entitled “Instructions for the Giving of Guarantees with respect to Oil Rights.” As it relates to existing onshore license holders like Zion, the Instructions call for the Company to obtain a new Base Bank Guarantee in
	the amount of $500,000, per each existing license area, split into two deposit dates as follows: (1) $250,000 by November 30, 2014 and (2) $250,000 by March 31, 2015.
	Furthermore, prior to the start of drilling, an additional bank guarantee of $250,000 will be required at least 14 days before the spud date. In summary, this is a potential cumulative total of $750,000 that is separate and apart from the Company’s existing Bank Guarantees discussed below in Section I.
	As of December 31, 2014, the Company has not yet provided any of the additional bank guarantees called for in the new guidelines and has not received a specific request requesting payment.
	The Petroleum Commissioner has discretion to raise or lower those amounts or may also forfeit a Company’s existing guarantee and/or cancel a petroleum right under certain circumstances.
	In addition, new and extended insurance policy guidelines were added. The Petroleum Commissioner may also view non-compliance with the new insurance provisions as breaching the work plan and the rights granted and act accordingly.
	The Company believes that these new regulations will significantly increase the expenditures associated with obtaining new exploration rights and drilling new wells, coupled with the heavy financial burden of “locking away” significant amounts of cash that could otherwise be used for operational purposes. Finally, this will also considerably increase the time needed to obtain all of the necessary authorizations and approvals prior to drilling.
	D. Royalty and Levy Commitments
	The Company is 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 the Company located in Israel (excluding those reserves used to operate the wells and related equipment and facilities). The present 12.5% royalty on oil revenues remains unchanged. At December 31, 2014, the Company did not have any outstanding obligation with respect to royalty payments, since to this date, no proved reserves have been found.
	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% will be imposed on profits from oil and gas and will gradually rise to 44.56%, 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 44.56% 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 which will be accepted by the State is the bi-annual average local price. The present 12.5% royalty imposed on oil revenues remains unchanged.
	E. Charitable Foundations
	Two charitable foundations were established, one in Israel and one in Switzerland, for the purpose of supporting charitable projects and other charities in Israel, the United States and internationally. A 3% royalty or equivalent interest in any Israeli oil and gas interests as may now be held or, in the future be acquired, by the Company shall be assigned to each charitable organization (6% interest in the aggregate). At December 31, 2014, the Company did not have any outstanding obligation in respect of the charitable foundations, since to this date, no proved reserves have been found.
	F. Office and Vehicle Leases
	(i) The Company had a lease for 3,600 square feet of corporate office space in Dallas, Texas, which was set to expire on October 31, 2011. On October 11, 2011, the Company and the landlord entered into an amended lease for
	its current office premises in Dallas, Texas as well as the addition of adjacent space in the building for a total of 6,500 square feet. Pursuant to the lease amendment, the lease term on the existing office space as well as the additional premises was extended to October 31, 2015.
	Rent was paid on a monthly basis and was $6,996 per month for each month from November 1, 2011 through October 31, 2012; thereafter, $7,534 for each month through October 31, 2013; $7,534 for each month through October 31, 2014 and $8,072 for each month through October 31, 2015. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the parties agreed that so long as there was no event of default under the lease amendment, monthly payments of $1,434 through October 31, 2012 and $1,544 thereafter through October 31, 2013 were to be abated.
	(ii) The Company’s field office in Caesarea Israel consisted of 5,565 square feet. The sublease term continued through March 31, 2014. Rent was paid on a monthly basis in the base amount of approximately NIS 28,400 per month (approximately $8,100 per month at the exchange rate in effect on the date of this report). The Company was also obligated to pay all cost of living adjustments, as well as its pro-rated portion of all taxes, utilities, and insurance and maintenance payments during the sublease term.
	On December 19, 2013 the Company signed a new lease agreement with Caesarea Asset Management and Development companies for new premises containing 6,566 square feet. The lease term is five years from February 1, 2014 to January 31, 2019. Rent is to be paid on a monthly basis in the base amount of approximately NIS 37,800 per month (approximately $9,700) per month 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. The Company is also obligated to pay all related taxes, utilities, insurance and maintenance payments during the lease term. Pursuant to the lease, two years from the commencement of the lease term, the Company may terminate the agreement upon three months’ notice provided the Company secures a replacement lessee approved by the lessor at its discretion.
	The Company has an option to renew the lease for another five years, 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 furnishes a bank guarantee and insurance confirmation prior to commencement of option period. Under the lease agreement, the Company is authorized to further sublease part of the leased premises to a third party that is pre-approved by the sub-lessor. Rent and its related taxes, utilities, insurance and maintenance expenses for 2014 and 2013 were $306,000 and $256,000, respectively.
	The future minimum lease payments as of December 31, 2014 are as follows:
		US$ thousands
	2015		284
	2016		164
	2017		161
	2018		161
	2019		13
			783
	G. Drilling Contract with AME/GYP
	On September 12, 2008, the Company entered into a drilling contract with Aladdin Middle East Ltd. (“AME”) pursuant to which AME shipped into Israel its 2,000 horsepower rig for use in the drilling contemplated by the Company’s business plan. The rig arrived in Israel and cleared customs in April 2009 and was used to drill the Ma’anit-Rehoboth #2 well, the Elijah #3 and the Ma’anit-Joseph #3 well. Drilling operations on the Ma’anit-Joseph #3 well were concluded in July 2011, whereupon the Company released the rig.
	In May, 2012, the Company and GuyneyYildizi Petrol UretimSondajMut, ve Tic A.S. (“GYP”) agreed that the Company would pay GYP $627,000 in full and final settlement of past bills, and such amount was paid on
	May 15, 2012. However, the matter related to GYP’s demand for $550,000 for rig demobilization was excluded from the settlement. The drilling contract between the Company and AME, which was allegedly assumed by GYP, provides that all disputes are to be settled by arbitration in London, United Kingdom.
	On March 4, 2014, the Company received from the International Court of Arbitration in Paris, France (“ICA”) a request for arbitration in London filed by GYP.
	On May 1, 2014, prior to Zion’s answer date deadline, Zion filed an answer in which it denied GYP’s claim for payment of the demobilization fee, and in addition it asserted a Counterclaim against GYP.
	In the preliminary procedural stage, Zion challenged GYP’s standing to assert its claim on the basis that there was no assignment of the Drilling Contract from AME to GYP pursuant to the provisions of the Drilling Contract. GYP challenged Zion’s right to assert any issue not related to the demobilization fee, including Zion’s counterclaim. On December 19, 2014, the appointed arbitrator communicated to the ICA that she was denying each party’s preliminary challenges, and the arbitration would proceed on the basis of the primary claims and counterclaims raised by the parties.
	On February  9, 2015, Zion and GYP each filed submissions on Stage 1 issues, to which rebuttals were due on March 5, 2015.
	No accrual was made at December 31, 2014, as the Company and its legal counsel believe that upon true construction of the Drilling Contract, as amended, GYP has no viable legal ground to base its claim (see also Note 10).
	H. Bank Guarantees
	As of December 31, 2014, the Company provided bank guarantees to various governmental bodies (approximately $1,154,000) and others (approximately $66,000) in respect of its drilling operation in an aggregate amount of approximately $1,220,000. The funds backing these guarantees and additional amounts added to support currency fluctuations as required by the bank are held in interest-bearing accounts and are reported on the Company’s balance sheets as “restricted cash.”
	I.   New 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 6 Avenue Jules Crosnier, 1206 Champel, Geneva, Switzerland. The purpose of the branch is to operate as a foreign treasury center for the Company.

Risks_and_Uncertainties

Risks and Uncertainties	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Risks and Uncertainties [Abstract]
Risks and Uncertainties	Note 9 – Risks and Uncertainties
	We are directly influenced by the political, economic and military conditions affecting Israel.
	We cannot predict the effect, if any, on our business of renewed hostilities between Israel and its neighbors or any other changes in the political climate in the area. Deterioration of political, economic and security conditions in Israel may adversely affect our operations.
	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.
	Newly enacted onshore licensing and environmental and safety related regulations promulgated by the various energy related ministries in Israel during 2013-2014 have rendered obtaining new exploration licenses more time-consuming and expensive.
	The Company believes that these new and/or revised regulations will also significantly increase the time, effort, and expenditures associated with obtaining all of the necessary authorizations and approvals prior to drilling any subsequent well.
	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 between the Israeli shekel versus the US Dollar;
	•         the extreme latest change in the oil and gas commodities price and hence the cost of oilfield services and drilling equipment;
	•         royalty and tax increases and other risks arising out of Israeli State sovereignty over the mineral rights in Israel and its taxing authority; and
	•         changes in Israel’s economy that could lead to legislation establishing oil and gas price controls.
	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:
	•         changes in the Petroleum Law resulting in modification of license and permit rights;
	•         adoption of new legislation relating to the terms and conditions pursuant to which operations in the energy sector may be conducted;
	•         changes in laws and policies affecting operations of foreign-based companies in Israel; and
	•         changes in governmental energy and environmental policies or the personnel administering them.
	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.
	The unavailability or high cost of drilling rigs, 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.
	Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual outcomes may vary materially from those indicated.

Subsequent_Events

Subsequent Events	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Events	Note 10 - Subsequent Events
	On January 2, 2015, the Company granted the following options from the 2005 Stock Option Plan and the 2011 Non-Employee Directors Stock Option Plan, to purchase:
	i.         128,500 shares of common stock to senior officers, other staff members, and service providers at an exercise price of $1.38. The options vested upon grant and are exercisable through January 2, 2025. The fair value of the options at the date of grant amounted to $105,752.
	ii.        108,000 shares of common stock to non-employee directors at an exercise price of $1.38. The options vested upon grant and are exercisable through January 2, 2021. The fair value of the options at the date of grant amounted to $68,375.
	iii.       In January 1, 2015 the company granted 25,000 shares of common stock to a senior officer at an exercise price of $1.38. The options have a par value of $.01. The options shall vest in June 30, 2015 and are exercisable through January 1, 2025. The fair value of the options at the date of grant amounted to $20,529.
	On January 13, 2015, an Amendment No. 3 to the Prospectus Supplement was filed. This Amendment No. 3 to Prospectus Supplement amends the Prospectus Supplement to provide for a new Unit Option. The prior Unit Option ended on December 31, 2014. The Unit Program continues with a different Unit Option of a combination of common stock, warrants, time periods and unit price, but otherwise has the same Unit Program features, conditions and terms as those set out in the original Prospectus Supplement and its 2nd Amendment. The Company’s new Unit Option Program began on February 2, 2015 and terminates May 4, 2015. This new 90-day Unit Option enables participants to purchase Units of our securities where each Unit (priced at $4.00) is comprised of one (1) share of Common Stock and three (3) Common Stock purchase warrants. Each warrant affords the investor or stockholder the opportunity to purchase one share of the Company’s Common Stock at a warrant exercise price of $1.00. Each of the three warrants per Unit will have a different expiration date.
	The Company has filed an application with NASDAQ to list the three warrants on the NASDAQ Global Market under the symbols “ZNWAB,” “ZNWAC,” and “ZNWAD;” however, no assurance can be provided that the warrants will be approved for listing on the NASDAQ Global Market.
	All warrants will first become exercisable and tradable on June 5, 2015, which is the 31st day following the Unit Option Termination Date (i.e., on May 4, 2015) and continue to be exercisable through June 6, 2016 for ZNWAB (1 year), June 5, 2017 for ZNWAC (2 years) and June 4, 2018 for ZNWAD (3 years), respectively, at a per share exercise price of $1.00. The Unit is priced at $4.00 per Unit and no change will be made to the warrant exercise price of $1.00 per share.
	On January 21, 2015, the Company formally submitted its Environmental Impact Assessment (“EIA”) document for our upcoming Megiddo-Jezreel #1 well to the Energy Ministry and thereafter, on January 25, 2015, to the Environmental Ministry. This significant milestone is required by our Megiddo-Jezreel License work plan as well as by Israel law and regulations.
	On February 2, 2015, the ZNWAA listed warrants began trading on the NASDAQ Global Markets. On February 11, 2015, NASDAQ halted trading on the ZNWAA warrants until the Company fully satisfies NASDAQ's request for additional info. The Company is diligently seeking to satisfy the requirement, but to date, NASDAQ has not yet reauthorized ZNWAA warrant trading.
	On February 25, 2015, the Company entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”) with Viking Services BV, an international rig and oilfield services provider, to obtain the right to contract a land-based rig and certain oilfield services and crew with which to drill our next well. The MOU contemplates a two-year agreement to drill two wells with an option to drill a third well.

Summary_of_Significant_Account1

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Financial Statements in United States Dollars	A. Financial Statements in United States Dollars
	The currency of the primary economic environment in which the operations of the Company are conducted is the United States dollar (“dollar”). Therefore, the dollar has been determined to be the Company’s functional currency. Non-dollar transactions and balances have been translated into dollars in accordance with the principles set forth in Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 830 “Foreign Currency Matters.” Transactions in foreign currency (primarily in New Israeli Shekels – “NIS”) are recorded at the exchange rate as of the transaction date. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currency are translated on the basis of the representative rate of exchange at the balance sheet date. Non-monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currency are stated at historical exchange rates. All exchange gains and losses from re-measurement of monetary balance sheet items denominated in non-dollar currencies are reflected in the statement of operations as they arise.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	B. Cash and Cash Equivalents
	The Company maintains cash balances with four banks, of which two banks are located in the United States, one in the United Kingdom, and one in Israel and money market mutual funds. For purposes of the statement of cash flows and balance sheet, the Company considers all highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents. At times, the Company maintains deposits in financial institutions in excess of federally insured limits. The Company has not experienced any losses in such accounts and does not believe it is exposed to any significant credit risk on cash.
Fixed Short Term time deposits	C. Fixed Short Term time deposits
	Interest bearing deposits for a period which exceeds 3 months but not more than 12 months and are not restricted are classified as Fixed Short Term time deposits.
Oil and Gas Properties and Impairment	D. Oil and Gas Properties and Impairment
	The Company follows 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 loss from continuing operations before income taxes and the adjusted carrying amount of the unproved properties is amortized on the unit-of-production method.
	The Company’s oil and gas property represents 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. Impairment requiring a charge to expense may be indicated through evaluation of drilling results, relinquishing drilling rights or other information.
	During the year ended December 31, 2014, and 2013, the Company recorded a non-cash impairment charge of $nil and $3,289,000, respectively of its unproved oil and gas properties (see Note 4).
	Currently, the Company has no economically recoverable reserves and no amortization base. The Company’s unproved oil and gas properties consist of capitalized exploration costs of $3,891,000 and $2,446,000 as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
Property and Equipment	E. Property and Equipment
	Property and equipment other than oil and gas property and equipment is recorded at cost and depreciated over its estimated useful lives of three to fourteen years. Depreciation charged to expense amounted to $80,000 and $86,000 for the years ended December 31, 2014, and 2013, respectively.
Assets Held For Severance Benefits	F. Assets Held for Severance Benefits
	Assets held for employee severance benefits represent contributions to severance pay funds and insurance policies that are recorded at their current redemption value.
Use of Estimates	G. Use of Estimates
	The preparation of the accompanying financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions about future events. These estimates and the underlying assumptions affect the amounts of assets and liabilities reported, disclosures about contingent assets and liabilities, and reported amounts of revenues and expenses. Such estimates include the valuation of unproved oil and gas properties, deferred tax assets, asset retirement obligations and legal contingencies. These estimates and assumptions are based on management’s best estimates and judgment. Management evaluates its estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis using historical experience and other factors, including the current economic environment, which management believes to be reasonable under the circumstances. The Company adjusts such estimates and assumptions when facts and circumstances dictate. Illiquid credit markets, volatile equity, foreign currency, and energy markets have combined to increase the uncertainty inherent in such estimates and assumptions. As future events and their effects cannot be determined with precision, actual results could differ significantly from these estimates. Changes in those estimates resulting from continuing changes in the economic environment will be reflected in the financial statements in future periods.
Income Taxes	H. Income Taxes
	Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss and tax credit carry forwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled (see note 7). The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in the statements of operations in the period that includes the enactment date.
	Based on ASC 740-10-25-6 “Income Taxes”, the Company recognizes the effect of income tax positions only if those positions are more likely than not of being sustained. Recognized income tax positions are measured at the largest amount that is greater than 50% likely of being realized. Changes in recognition or measurement are reflected in the period in which the change in judgment occurs. The Company accounts for interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits, if and when required, as part of income tax expense in the statements of operations. No liability for unrecognized tax benefits was recognized as of December 31, 2014 and 2013.
Environmental Costs and Loss Contingencies	I. Environmental Costs and Loss Contingencies
	Liabilities for loss contingencies, including environmental remediation costs not within the scope of FASB ASC Subtopic 410-20, Asset Retirement Obligations and Environmental Obligations – Asset Retirement Obligations, arising from claims, assessments, litigation, fines, and penalties and other sources, are recorded when probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the assessment and/or remediation can be reasonably estimated. Legal costs incurred in connection with loss contingencies are expensed as incurred. Recoveries of environmental remediation costs from third parties that are probable of realization are separately recorded as assets, and are not offset against the related environmental liability.
	Accruals for estimated losses from environmental remediation obligations generally are recognized no later than completion of the remedial feasibility study. Such accruals are adjusted as further information develops or circumstances change. Costs of expected future expenditures for environmental remediation obligations are not discounted to their present value.
Asset Retirement Obligations	J. Asset Retirement Obligation
	Obligations for dismantlement, restoration and removal of facilities and tangible equipment at the end of oil and gas property’s useful life are recorded based on the estimate of the fair value of the liabilities in the period in which the obligation is incurred. This requires the use of management’s estimates with respect to future abandonment costs, inflation, market risk premiums, useful life and cost of capital. The estimate of asset retirement obligations does not give consideration to the value the related assets could have to other parties, although it does take into account estimated residual salvage values. The obligation is recorded if sufficient information about the timing and (or) method of settlement is available to reasonably estimate fair value (see note 8B).
Net Loss per Share Data	K. Net Loss per Share Data
	Basic and diluted net loss per share of common stock, par value $0.01 per share is presented in conformity with ASC 260-10 “Earnings Per Share.” Diluted net loss per share is the same as basic net loss per share as the inclusion of 4,653,986 and 3,190,225 common stock equivalents in 2014 and 2013 respectively, would be anti-dilutive.
Stock Based Compensation	L. Stock Based Compensation
	The Company follows ASC 718-20-55, “Compensation – Stock Compensation” (“ASC 718-20-55”), which requires measurement of compensation cost for all stock-based awards based upon the fair value on date of grant and recognition of compensation over the service period for awards expected to vest. Under this method, the Company has recognized compensation cost for awards granted beginning January 1, 2006, based on the Black-Scholes option-pricing method.
	The Company accounts for equity instruments issued to non-employees in accordance with the provisions of ASC 505, “Equity,” using a fair-value approach.
	As noted, the value of stock option grants is recognized as a compensation expense, on a graded-vesting basis, over the requisite service period of the entire award, net of estimated forfeitures unless vested.
Fair Value Measurements	M. Fair Value Measurements
	The Company’s financial instruments include mainly cash and cash equivalents, short-term time deposits, other receivables, prepaid expenses, assets held for severance benefits, and accounts payable. The carrying amounts of these financial instruments approximate their fair value.
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements	N. Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
	During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company has elected to early adopt Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2014-10, Development Stage Entities (Topic 915): Elimination of Certain Financial Reporting Requirements. The adoption of this ASU allows the Company to remove the inception to date information and all references to development stage.
	We do not believe that the adoption of any other recently issued accounting pronouncements in 2014 had a significant impact on our financial position, results of operations, or cash flow.
Reclassifications	O. Reclassifications
	Certain reclassifications have been made to conform the prior period’s financial information to the current period’s presentation.

Unproved_Oil_and_Gas_Propertie1

Unproved Oil and Gas Properties, Full Cost Method (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Unproved Oil and Gas Properties, Full Cost Method [Abstract]
Schedule of Unproved Oil and Gas Properties, Full Cost Method
		31-Dec-14		31-Dec-13
		US$ thousands		US$ thousands
	Excluded from amortization base:
	Inventory, and other operational related costs		895		929
	Capitalized salary costs		916		602
	Legal costs, license fees and other preparation costs		2,079		910
	Other costs		1		5
			3,891		2,446
Schedule of Impairment of Unproved Oil and Gas Properties
		For the year ended December 31,
		2014		2013
		US$ thousands		US$ thousands
	Drilling operations, completion costs and other related costs		—		480
	Capitalized salary costs		—		488
	Legal costs, license fees and other preparation costs		—		2,320
	Other costs		—		1
			—		3,289

Accrued_Liabilities_Tables

Accrued Liabilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accrued Liabilities [Abstract]
Schedule of Accrued Liabilities
		31-Dec-14		31-Dec-13
		US$ thousands		US$ thousands
	Employees related		120		102
	Institutions & vendors		509		993
	Other		241		379
			870		1,474

Stockholders_Equity_Tables

Stockholders' Equity (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Schedule of Warrants and Options Exercise Prices and Expiration Dates
		Exercise Price			Number of Shares		Expiration Date		Warrants or Options
		US$
	To non-employees
			0.01			20,000		11-Nov-23		Options
			0.01			10,000		11-Jun-24		Options
			1.67			115,000		1-Oct-24		Options
			1.7			130,000		20-Dec-22		Options
			2.61			77,000		4-Dec-22		Options
	To employees and directors
			0.01			20,000		31-Jan-20		Options
			0.01			5,000		28-Jun-23		Options
			0.01			51,000		11-Nov-23		Options
			0.01			25,000		31-Dec-23		Options
			0.01			50,000		31-Mar-24		Options
			0.01			10,000		11-Jun-24		Options
			0.01			25,000		1-Dec-24		Options
			1.67			390,000		1-Oct-20		Options
			1.67			420,693		1-Oct-24		Options
			1.7			137,500		21-Dec-18		Options
			1.7			239,500		20-Dec-22		Options
			1.73			25,000		9-Jan-19		Options
			1.82			25,000		13-Jun-17		Options
			1.86			25,000		3-Dec-18		Options
			1.95			25,000		April 02,2020		Options
			1.96			25,000		3-Sep-19		Options
			2.28			25,000		10-Jul-19		Options
			2.61			237,500		4-Dec-17		Options
			2.61			939,500		4-Dec-21		Options
			4.45			25,000		26-Jan-16		Options
			4.55			15,000		31-Jan-16		Options
	To investors
			2			1,564,293		31-Jan-20		Warrants
			1.99	*		4,653,986
	___________________
	* Weighted Average
Warrant and Option Transactions
		Number of			Weighted Average
		shares			exercise price
					US$
	Outstanding, December 31, 2012		2,392,000			2.41
	Changes during 2013 to:
	Granted to employees, officers, directors and others		342,500			0.44
	Expired/Cancelled/Forfeited		(197,750	)		2.71
	Exercised		(137,500	)		0.01
	Outstanding, December 31, 2013		2,399,250			2.24
	Changes during 2014 to:
	Granted to employees, officers, directors and others		1,085,693			1.47
	Expired/Cancelled/Forfeited		(308,250	)		2.67
	Exercised		(87,000	)		0.01
	Outstanding, December 31, 2014		3,089,693			1.99
	Exercisable, December 31, 2014		3,087,193			1.99
Stock Warrants and Options Outstanding	Shares underlying outstanding options (non-vested)								Shares underlying outstanding options (fully vested)
	Range of exercise price	Number outstanding			Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)		Weighted Average Exercise price		Range of exercise price		Number Outstanding		Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)		Weighted Average Exercise price
	US$						US$		US$						US$
	0.01		2,500			9.24		0.01		0.01		25,000		9.93		0.01
	—		—			—		—		0.01		20,000		9.45		0.01
	—		—			—		—		0.01		47,500		9.24		0.01
	—		—			—		—		0.01		25,000		9		0.01
	—		—			—		—		0.01		71,000		8.87		0.01
	—		—			—		—		0.01		2,000		8.5		0.01
	—		—			—		—		0.01		20,000		5.09		0.01
	—		—			—		—		1.67		390,000		5.76		1.67
	—		—			—		—		1.67		535,693		9.76		1.67
	—		—			—		—		1.7		369,500		7.98		1.7
	—		—			—		—		1.7		137,500		3.98		1.7
	—		—			—		—		1.73		25,000		4.03		1.73
	—		—			—		—		1.82		25,000		2.45		1.82
	—		—			—		—		1.86		25,000		3.93		1.86
	Shares underlying outstanding options (non-vested)								Shares underlying outstanding options (fully vested)
	Range of exercise price	Number outstanding			Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)		Weighted Average Exercise price		Range of exercise price		Number Outstanding		Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)		Weighted Average Exercise price
	US$						US$		US$						US$
	—		—			—		—		1.95		25,000		5.26		1.95
	—		—			—		—		1.96		25,000		4.68		1.96
	—		—			—		—		2.28		25,000		4.53		2.28
	—		—			—		—		2.61		237,500		2.93		2.61
	—		—			—		—		2.61		1,016,500		6.93		2.61
	—		—			—		—		4.45		25,000		1.07		4.45
	—		—			—		—		4.55		15,000		1.08		4.55
	0.01		2,500					0.01		0.01—4.55		3,087,193				1.99
Schedule of Warrants Description
		Period of Grant			US$		Expiration Date
	ZNWAA Warrants		March 2013 – December 2014			2		January 31, 2020
Non Employee [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Assumptions Used to Estimate Fair Value of Warrants Granted Using Black-Scholes Option Pricing Model
		For the year ended December 31,
		2014			2013
	Weighted-average fair value of underlying stock at grant date	$	1.73		$	1.73
	Dividend yields		—			—
	Expected volatility		75%			75%-76%
	Risk-free interest rates		2.42%-2.65%			2.52%-2.77%
	Expected lives (in years)		10			10
	Weighted-average grant date fair value	$	1.43		$	1.73
Non Employee [Member] | Warrants and Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Schedule of Compensation Cost of Warrant and Option Issuances
	For the year ended December 31,
	2014	2013
	US$	US$
	221,000		246,000
Employees and Directors [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Assumptions Used to Estimate Fair Value of Warrants Granted Using Black-Scholes Option Pricing Model
		For the year ended December 31,
		2014			2013
	Weighted-average fair value of underlying stock at grant date	$	1.7		$	1.78
	Dividend yields		—			—
	Expected volatility		70%-82%			67%-82%
	Risk-free interest rates		0.94%-1.74%			0.37%-1.75%
	Expected lives (in years)		3.00-5.50			3.00-5.00
	Weighted-average grant date fair value	$	1.01		$	1.43
Employees and Directors [Member] | Warrants and Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Schedule of Compensation Cost of Warrant and Option Issuances
	For the year ended December 31,
	2014	2013
	US$	US$
	1,000,000		773,000

Income_Taxes_Tables

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities
		December 31, 2014			December 31, 2013
		US$ thousands			US$ thousands
	Deferred tax assets:
	Net operating loss carry forwards		43,892			41,230
	Other		1,688			1,577
	Total gross deferred tax assets		45,580			42,807
	Less – valuation allowance		(44,259	)		(41,967	)
	Net deferred tax assets		1,321			840
	Deferred tax liabilities :
	Property and equipment		2			(8	)
	Unproved oil and gas properties		(1,323	)		(832	)
	Total gross deferred tax liabilities		(1,321	)		(840	)
	Net deferred tax asset		—			—
Schedule of Income Tax Reconciliation
		Year ended			Year ended
		December 31, 2014			December 31, 2013
		US$ thousands			US$ thousands
	Pre-tax loss as reported		(6,756	)		(9,077	)
	U.S. statutory tax rate		34	%		34	%
	Theoretical tax expense		(2,297	)		(3,086	)
	Increase in income tax expense resulting from:
	Permanent differences		5			9
	Other differences		—			1
	Change in valuation allowance		2,292			3,076
	Income tax expense		—			—

Commitments_and_Contingencies_

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies [Abstract]
Schedule of Changes in Asset Retirement Obligations
		For the year ended December 31,
		2014			2013
		US$ thousands			US$ thousands
	Asset Retirement Obligations, Beginning Balance		483			870
	Liabilities Settled		(320	)		(276	)
	Revision of Estimate		—			(111	)
	Retirement Obligations, Ending Balance		163			483
Schedule of Future Minimum Lease Payments
		US$ thousands
	2015		284
	2016		164
	2017		161
	2018		161
	2019		13
			783

Nature_of_Operations_and_Basis1

Nature of Operations and Basis of Presentation (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended		0 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Apr. 10, 2014
			acre
Nature of Operations and Basis of Presentation [Line Items]
Net loss	($6,756)	($9,077)
Accumulated deficit	($134,796)	($128,040)
Megiddo-Jezreel License [Member]
Nature of Operations and Basis of Presentation [Line Items]
Area of land, approximate	99,000
Initial length of lease	3 years
Megiddo-Jezreel License [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Nature of Operations and Basis of Presentation [Line Items]
Length of lease, additional term	7 years
Megiddo-Jezreel License [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Nature of Operations and Basis of Presentation [Line Items]
Length of lease, additional term	1 year
Asher-Menashe License [Member]
Nature of Operations and Basis of Presentation [Line Items]
License expired date	9-Jun-14
Joseph License [Member]
Nature of Operations and Basis of Presentation [Line Items]
License expired date	10-Oct-13
Jordan Valley License [Member]
Nature of Operations and Basis of Presentation [Line Items]
Area of land, approximate			55,845
Initial length of lease			3 years
License expired date	30-Apr-14

Summary_of_Significant_Account2

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Textual)
Common stock equivalents excluded from EPS as the inclusion would be anti-dilutive	4,653,986	3,190,225
Common stock, par value	$0.01	$0.01
Impairment of unproved oil and gas properties		$3,289
Capitalized exploration costs	3,891	2,446
Additional paid in capital
Depreciation	$80	$86

Provision_For_Severance_Pay_Na

Provision For Severance Pay (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Provision for Severance Pay (Textual)
Provision for severance pay	$195	$177
Funds deposited in financial institutions	$169	$144

Unproved_Oil_and_Gas_Propertie2

Unproved Oil and Gas Properties, Full Cost Method (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Excluded from amortization base:
Inventory, and other operational related costs	$895	$929
Capitalized salary costs	916	602
Legal costs, license fees and other preparation costs	2,079	910
Other costs	1	5
Total unproved oil and gas properties, full cost method	$3,891	$2,446

Unproved_Oil_and_Gas_Propertie3

Unproved Oil and Gas Properties, Full Cost Method (Details 1) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Unproved Oil and Gas Properties, Full Cost Method [Abstract]
Drilling operations, completion costs and other related costs		$480
Capitalized salary costs		488
Legal cost, license fees and other preparation costs		2,320
Other costs		1
Impairment of oil and gas properties		$3,289

Accrued_Liabilities_Details

Accrued Liabilities (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Accrued Liabilities [Abstract]
Employees related	$120	$102
Institutions & vendors	509	993
Other	241	379
Total accrued liabilities	$870	$1,474

Stockholders_Equity_Narrative_

Stockholders' Equity (Narrative) (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended	22 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2005	Jun. 30, 2011
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Common stock, Authorized	100,000,000	100,000,000	100,000,000
Aggregate amount of securities description	From time to time, the Company may offer up to an aggregate of approximately $119,850,000 of any combination of the securities described in this prospectus, either individually or in units.
Common stock, par value	$0.01	$0.01	$0.01
Amount collected from DSPP	$3,387,000	$5,865,000
Common stock shares issued	1,661,692	2,761,178
Units issued	773,318	1,564,293
Shares issued	888,374	1,196,885
Aggregate intrinsic value, exercisable	170,000	170,000	224,000
Warrant [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Warrant termination date description	On May 30, 2014 the Company extended the expiration date for the Unit program under its DSPP to December 31, 2014. Accordingly, the Warrants "ZNWAA" already became first exercisable on the 31st day following the Unit Option Termination Date (on February 2, 2015 ) and continue to be exercisable through January 31, 2020 at a per share exercise price of $2.00.
Equity instrument exercise price	$2	$2
Warrants and Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock options reserved for exercisable to employees and non-employees	4,653,986	4,653,986
Stock options exercisable, shares	3,087,193	3,087,193
Outstanding options and warrants, Intrinsic value	290,000	290,000
Outstanding options and warrants, shares	4,653,986	4,653,986
Stock Option Plan 2005 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares authorized for plan				1,000,000
Stock option plan, award to purchase common stock			45,000
Stock option plan, award to purchase common stock, exercise price			$0.01
Stock options granted, fair value on dates of grant			100,425
Stock option plan, expiration date			28-Jun-23
Unrecognized compensation cost related to non vested stock	1,000	1,000
Common Stock
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock option plan, award to purchase common stock	87,000		138,000
Senior officer one [Member] | Stock Option Plan 2011 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock option plan, award to purchase common stock			25,000
Stock option plan, award to purchase common stock, exercise price			$0.01
Stock options granted, fair value on dates of grant			35,024
Stock option plan, expiration date			31-Dec-23
Senior officer one [Member] | Stock Option Plan 2005 [Member] | March 31, 2024 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares purchased under option plan (in shares)	25,000
Shares purchased under option plan price per share	$0.01
Shares purchased under option plan	47,524
Stock option plan, number of consecutive quarters	4
Senior officer one [Member] | Stock Option Plan 2005 [Member] | April 1, 2024 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares purchased under option plan (in shares)	10,000
Shares purchased under option plan price per share	$0.01
Shares purchased under option plan	19,009
Senior officer one [Member] | Stock Option Plan 2005 [Member] | June 11, 2024 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares purchased under option plan (in shares)	45,000
Shares purchased under option plan price per share	$0.01
Shares purchased under option plan	93,228
Senior officer one [Member] | Stock Option Plan 2005 [Member] | October 1, 2024 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares purchased under option plan (in shares)	1,693
Shares purchased under option plan price per share	$1.67
Shares purchased under option plan	1,662
Senior officer one [Member] | Stock Option Plan 2005 [Member] | December 1, 2024 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares purchased under option plan (in shares)	25,000
Shares purchased under option plan price per share	$0.01
Shares purchased under option plan	39,019
Senior officer two [Member] | Stock Option Plan 2005 [Member] | March 31, 2024 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares purchased under option plan (in shares)	20,000
Shares purchased under option plan price per share	$0.01
Shares purchased under option plan	38,018
Senior officer three [Member] | Stock Option Plan 2005 [Member] | March 31, 2024 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares purchased under option plan (in shares)	10,000
Shares purchased under option plan price per share	$0.01
Shares purchased under option plan	19,009
Senior officers, other staff members, and service providers [Member] | Stock Option Plan 2011 [Member] | October 1, 2024 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares purchased under option plan (in shares)	534,000
Shares purchased under option plan price per share	$1.67
Shares purchased under option plan	562,660
Non Employee Director [Member] | Stock Option Plan 2011 [Member] | January 9, 2019 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock option plan, award to purchase common stock			25,000
Stock option plan, award to purchase common stock, exercise price			$1.73
Stock options granted, fair value on dates of grant			19,099
Stock option plan, expiration date			9-Jan-19
Non Employee Director [Member] | Stock Option Plan 2011 [Member] | July 10, 2019 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock option plan, award to purchase common stock			25,000
Stock option plan, award to purchase common stock, exercise price			$2.28
Stock options granted, fair value on dates of grant			27,808
Stock option plan, expiration date			10-Jul-19
Non Employee Director [Member] | Stock Option Plan 2011 [Member] | September 3, 2019 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock option plan, award to purchase common stock			25,000
Stock option plan, award to purchase common stock, exercise price			$1.96
Stock options granted, fair value on dates of grant			24,196
Stock option plan, expiration date			3-Sep-19
Employee And Consultants [Member] | Stock Option Plan 2011 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares authorized for plan					2,000,000
2 Non Employee Directors [Member] | Stock Option Plan 2011 [Member] | April 2, 2020 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock option plan, award to purchase common stock	25,000
Stock option plan, award to purchase common stock, exercise price	$1.95
Stock options granted, fair value on dates of grant	25,085
8 Non Employee Directors [Member] | Stock Option Plan 2011 [Member] | October 1, 2020 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock option plan, award to purchase common stock	390,000
Stock option plan, award to purchase common stock, exercise price	$1.67
Stock options granted, fair value on dates of grant	307,763
Executive Officer [Member] | Stock Option Plan 2005 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock option plan, award to purchase common stock			197,500
Stock option plan, award to purchase common stock, exercise price			$0.01
Stock options granted, fair value on dates of grant			$304,430
Stock option plan, expiration date			11-Nov-23

Stockholders_Equity_Schedule_o

Stockholders' Equity (Schedule of Warrants and Options Exercise Prices and Expiration Dates) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Options [Member]
Exercise price	$1.99		$2.24	$2.41
Number of Shares	3,089,693		2,399,250	2,392,000
Range Exercise Price 0.01 First [Member] | Options [Member] | Non Employee [Member]
Exercise price	$0.01
Number of Shares	20,000
Expiration date	11-Nov-23
Warrants or Options	Options
Range Exercise Price 0.01 First [Member] | Options [Member] | Employees and Directors [Member]
Exercise price	$0.01
Number of Shares	20,000
Expiration date	31-Jan-20
Warrants or Options	Options
Range Exercise Price 0.01 Second [Member] | Options [Member] | Non Employee [Member]
Exercise price	$0.01
Number of Shares	10,000
Expiration date	11-Jun-24
Warrants or Options	Options
Range Exercise Price 0.01 Second [Member] | Options [Member] | Employees and Directors [Member]
Exercise price	$0.01
Number of Shares	5,000
Expiration date	28-Jun-23
Warrants or Options	Options
Range Exercise Price 1.67 First [Member] | Options [Member] | Non Employee [Member]
Exercise price	$1.67
Number of Shares	115,000
Expiration date	1-Oct-24
Warrants or Options	Options
Range Exercise Price 1.67 First [Member] | Options [Member] | Employees and Directors [Member]
Exercise price	$1.67
Number of Shares	390,000
Expiration date	1-Oct-20
Warrants or Options	Options
Range Exercise Price 1.67 First [Member] | Options [Member] | Investors [Member]
Exercise price			$2
Number of Shares			790,975
Range Exercise Price 1.70 First [Member] | Options [Member] | Non Employee [Member]
Exercise price	$1.70		$0.01
Number of Shares	130,000		20,000
Expiration date	20-Dec-22
Warrants or Options	Options
Range Exercise Price 1.70 First [Member] | Options [Member] | Employees and Directors [Member]
Exercise price	$1.70
Number of Shares	137,500
Expiration date	21-Dec-18
Warrants or Options	Options
Range Exercise Price 2.61 First [Member] | Options [Member] | Non Employee [Member]
Exercise price	$2.61
Number of Shares	77,000
Expiration date	4-Dec-22
Warrants or Options	Options
Range Exercise Price 2.61 First [Member] | Options [Member] | Employees and Directors [Member]
Exercise price	$2.61
Number of Shares	939,500
Expiration date	4-Dec-21
Warrants or Options	Options
Range Exercise Price 0.01 Third [Member] | Options [Member] | Employees and Directors [Member]
Exercise price	$0.01
Number of Shares	51,000
Expiration date	11-Nov-23
Warrants or Options	Options
Range Exercise Price 0.01 Four [Member] | Options [Member] | Employees and Directors [Member]
Exercise price	$0.01
Number of Shares	25,000
Expiration date	31-Dec-23
Warrants or Options	Options
Range Exercise Price 0.01 Five [Member] | Options [Member] | Employees and Directors [Member]
Exercise price	$0.01
Number of Shares	50,000
Expiration date	31-Mar-24
Warrants or Options	Options
Range Exercise Price 0.01 Six [Member] | Options [Member] | Employees and Directors [Member]
Exercise price	$0.01
Number of Shares	10,000
Expiration date	11-Jun-24
Warrants or Options	Options
Range Exercise Price 0.01 Seven [Member] | Options [Member] | Employees and Directors [Member]
Exercise price	$0.01
Number of Shares	25,000
Expiration date	1-Dec-24
Warrants or Options	Options
Range Exercise Price 1.67 Second [Member] | Non Employee [Member]
Exercise price				$2.50
Number of Shares				25,000
Range Exercise Price 1.67 Second [Member] | Options [Member] | Employees and Directors [Member]
Exercise price	$1.67
Number of Shares	420,693
Expiration date	1-Oct-24
Warrants or Options	Options
Range Exercise Price 1.70 Second [Member] | Options [Member] | Employees and Directors [Member]
Exercise price	$1.70
Number of Shares	239,500
Expiration date	20-Dec-22
Warrants or Options	Options
Range Exercise Price 1.73 [Member] | Options [Member] | Non Employee [Member]
Exercise price			$2.50
Number of Shares			25,000
Range Exercise Price 1.73 [Member] | Options [Member] | Employees and Directors [Member]
Exercise price	$1.73
Number of Shares	25,000
Expiration date	9-Jan-19
Warrants or Options	Options
Range Exercise Price 1.82 [Member] | Options [Member] | Employees and Directors [Member]
Exercise price	$1.82
Number of Shares	25,000
Expiration date	13-Jun-17
Warrants or Options	Options
Range Exercise Price 1.86 [Member] | Options [Member] | Employees and Directors [Member]
Exercise price	$1.86
Number of Shares	25,000
Expiration date	3-Dec-18
Warrants or Options	Options
Range Exercise Price 1.95 [Member] | Options [Member] | Employees and Directors [Member]
Exercise price	$1.95
Number of Shares	25,000
Expiration date	2-Apr-20
Warrants or Options	Options
Range Exercise Price 1.96 [Member] | Options [Member] | Employees and Directors [Member]
Exercise price	$1.96
Number of Shares	25,000
Expiration date	3-Sep-19
Warrants or Options	Options
Range Exercise Price 2.28 [Member] | Options [Member] | Employees and Directors [Member]
Exercise price	$2.28
Number of Shares	25,000
Expiration date	10-Jul-19
Warrants or Options	Options
Range Exercise Price 2.61 Second [Member] | Options [Member] | Employees and Directors [Member]
Exercise price	$2.61
Number of Shares	237,500
Expiration date	4-Dec-17
Warrants or Options	Options
Range Exercise Price 4.45 [Member] | Options [Member] | Employees and Directors [Member]
Exercise price	$4.45
Number of Shares	25,000
Expiration date	26-Jan-16
Warrants or Options	Options
Range Exercise Price 4.55 [Member] | Options [Member] | Employees and Directors [Member]
Exercise price	$4.55
Number of Shares	15,000
Expiration date	31-Jan-16
Warrants or Options	Options
Range Exercise Price 2.00 [Member] | Warrant [Member] | Investors [Member]
Exercise price	$2
Number of Shares	1,564,293
Expiration date	31-Jan-20
Warrants or Options	Warrants
Range Exercise Price 1.99 [Member]
Exercise price	$1.99	[1]
Number of Shares	4,653,986
Range Exercise Price 1.99 [Member] | Warrant [Member] | Investors [Member]
Exercise price	$1.99	[1]
Number of Shares	4,653,986
[1]	Weighted Average

Stockholders_Equity_Stock_Opti

Stockholders' Equity (Stock Option Transactions) (Details) (Employee Stock Option [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Employee Stock Option [Member]
Number of shares
Outstanding, Beginning balance	2,399,250	2,392,000
Granted to employees, officers, directors and others	1,085,693	342,500
Expired/Cancelled/Forfeited	-308,250	-197,750
Exercised	-87,000	-137,500
Outstanding, Ending balance	3,089,693	2,399,250
Number of shares Exercisable	3,087,193
Weighted average exercise price
Outstanding, Beginning balance	$2.24	$2.41
Granted to employees, officers, directors and others	$1.47	$0.44
Expired/Cancelled/Forfeited	$2.67	$2.71
Exercised	$0.01	$0.01
Outstanding, Ending balance	$1.99	$2.24
Weighted Average exercise price Exercisable	$1.99

Stockholders_Equity_Stock_Opti1

Stockholders' Equity (Stock Options Outstanding) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Unvested
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Shares underlying outstanding options exercise price	$0.01
Shares underlying outstanding options Number outstanding	2,500
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted Average Exercise price	$0.01
Unvested | Range Exercise Price 0.01 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Shares underlying outstanding options exercise price	$0.01
Shares underlying outstanding options Number outstanding	2,500
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)	9 years 2 months 27 days
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted Average Exercise price	$0.01
Vested
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Shares underlying outstanding options Range of exercise price, lower range	$0.01
Shares underlying outstanding options Range of exercise price, upper range	$4.55
Shares underlying outstanding options Number outstanding	3,087,193
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted Average Exercise price	$1.99
Vested | Range Exercise Price 0.01 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Shares underlying outstanding options exercise price	$0.01
Shares underlying outstanding options Number outstanding	25,000
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)	9 years 11 months 5 days
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted Average Exercise price	$0.01
Vested | Range Exercise Price 0.01 Second [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Shares underlying outstanding options exercise price	$0.01
Shares underlying outstanding options Number outstanding	20,000
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)	9 years 5 months 12 days
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted Average Exercise price	$0.01
Vested | Range Exercise Price 1.67 First [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Shares underlying outstanding options exercise price	$1.67
Shares underlying outstanding options Number outstanding	535,693
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)	9 years 9 months 4 days
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted Average Exercise price	$1.67
Vested | Range Exercise Price 1.70 First [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Shares underlying outstanding options exercise price	$1.70
Shares underlying outstanding options Number outstanding	369,500
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)	7 years 11 months 23 days
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted Average Exercise price	$1.70
Vested | Range Exercise Price 2.61 First [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Shares underlying outstanding options exercise price	$2.61
Shares underlying outstanding options Number outstanding	237,500
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)	2 years 11 months 5 days
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted Average Exercise price	$2.61
Vested | Range Exercise Price 0.01 Third [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Shares underlying outstanding options exercise price	$0.01
Shares underlying outstanding options Number outstanding	47,500
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)	9 years 2 months 27 days
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted Average Exercise price	$0.01
Vested | Range Exercise Price 0.01 Four [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Shares underlying outstanding options exercise price	$0.01
Shares underlying outstanding options Number outstanding	25,000
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)	9 years
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted Average Exercise price	$0.01
Vested | Range Exercise Price 0.01 Five [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Shares underlying outstanding options exercise price	$0.01
Shares underlying outstanding options Number outstanding	71,000
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)	8 years 10 months 13 days
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted Average Exercise price	$0.01
Vested | Range Exercise Price 0.01 Six [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Shares underlying outstanding options exercise price	$0.01
Shares underlying outstanding options Number outstanding	2,000
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)	8 years 6 months
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted Average Exercise price	$0.01
Vested | Range Exercise Price 0.01 Seven [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Shares underlying outstanding options exercise price	$0.01
Shares underlying outstanding options Number outstanding	20,000
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)	5 years 1 month 2 days
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted Average Exercise price	$0.01
Vested | Range Exercise Price 1.67 Second [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Shares underlying outstanding options exercise price	$1.67
Shares underlying outstanding options Number outstanding	390,000
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)	5 years 9 months 4 days
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted Average Exercise price	$1.67
Vested | Range Exercise Price 1.70 Second [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Shares underlying outstanding options exercise price	$1.70
Shares underlying outstanding options Number outstanding	137,500
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)	3 years 11 months 23 days
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted Average Exercise price	$1.70
Vested | Range Exercise Price 1.73 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Shares underlying outstanding options exercise price	$1.73
Shares underlying outstanding options Number outstanding	25,000
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)	4 years 11 days
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted Average Exercise price	$1.73
Vested | Range Exercise Price 1.82 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Shares underlying outstanding options exercise price	$1.82
Shares underlying outstanding options Number outstanding	25,000
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)	2 years 5 months 12 days
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted Average Exercise price	$1.82
Vested | Range Exercise Price 1.86 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Shares underlying outstanding options exercise price	$1.86
Shares underlying outstanding options Number outstanding	25,000
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)	3 years 11 months 5 days
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted Average Exercise price	$1.86
Vested | Range Exercise Price 1.95 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Shares underlying outstanding options exercise price	$1.95
Shares underlying outstanding options Number outstanding	25,000
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)	5 years 3 months 4 days
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted Average Exercise price	$1.95
Vested | Range Exercise Price 1.96 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Shares underlying outstanding options exercise price	$1.96
Shares underlying outstanding options Number outstanding	25,000
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)	4 years 8 months 5 days
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted Average Exercise price	$1.96
Vested | Range Exercise Price 2.28 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Shares underlying outstanding options exercise price	$2.28
Shares underlying outstanding options Number outstanding	25,000
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)	4 years 6 months 11 days
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted Average Exercise price	$2.28
Vested | Range Exercise Price 2.61 Second [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Shares underlying outstanding options exercise price	$2.61
Shares underlying outstanding options Number outstanding	1,016,500
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)	6 years 11 months 5 days
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted Average Exercise price	$2.61
Vested | Range Exercise Price 4.45 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Shares underlying outstanding options exercise price	$4.45
Shares underlying outstanding options Number outstanding	25,000
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)	1 year 26 days
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted Average Exercise price	$4.45
Vested | Range Exercise Price 4.55 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Shares underlying outstanding options exercise price	$4.55
Shares underlying outstanding options Number outstanding	15,000
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted average remaining contractual life (years)	1 year 29 days
Shares underlying outstanding options Weighted Average Exercise price	$4.55

Stockholders_Equity_Assumption

Stockholders' Equity (Assumptions Used to Estimate Fair Value of Warrants Granted Using Black-Scholes Option Pricing Model) (Details) (Stock Options [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Non Employee [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Weighted-average fair value of underlying stock at grant date	$1.73	$1.73
Dividend yields
Expected volatility, minimum		75.00%
Expected volatility, maximum		76.00%
Expected volatility	75.00%
Risk-free interest rates, minimum	2.42%	2.52%
Risk-free interest rates, maximum	2.65%	2.77%
Expected lives (in years)	10 years	10 years
Weighted-average grant date fair value	$1.43	$1.73
Employee [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Weighted-average fair value of underlying stock at grant date	$1.70	$1.78
Dividend yields
Expected volatility, minimum	70.00%	67.00%
Expected volatility, maximum	82.00%	82.00%
Risk-free interest rates, minimum	0.94%	0.37%
Risk-free interest rates, maximum	1.74%	1.75%
Weighted-average grant date fair value	$1.01	$1.43
Employee [Member] | Minimum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Expected lives (in years)	3 years	3 years
Employee [Member] | Maximum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Expected lives (in years)	5 years 6 months	5 years

Stockholders_Equity_Compensati

Stockholders' Equity (Compensation Cost of Warrant and Option Issuances Recognized) (Details) (Warrants and Options [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Non Employee [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Compensation cost of warrant and option issuances	$221,000	$246,000
Employees and Directors [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Compensation cost of warrant and option issuances	$1,000,000	$773,000

Stockholders_Equity_Schedule_o1

Stockholders' Equity (Schedule of Warrants Description) (Details) (ZNWAA Warrants [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Class of Warrant or Right [Line Items]
Warrant name	ZNWAA Warrants
Warrant exercise price	$2
Warrant expiration date	31-Jan-20
Beginning Date [Member]
Class of Warrant or Right [Line Items]
Warrant period of grant	1-Mar-13
Ending Date [Member]
Class of Warrant or Right [Line Items]
Warrant period of grant	31-Dec-14

Income_Taxes_Details

Income Taxes (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Deferred tax assets:
Net operating loss carry forwards	$41,230	$43,892
Other	1,577	1,688
Total gross deferred tax assets	42,807	45,580
Less - valuation allowance	-41,967	-44,259
Net deferred tax assets	840	1,321
Deferred tax liabilities:
Property and equipment	-8	2
Unproved oil and gas properties	-832	-1,323
Total gross deferred tax liabilities	-840	-1,321
Net deferred tax asset

Income_Taxes_Details_1

Income Taxes (Details 1) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Pre-tax loss as reported	($6,756)	($9,077)
U.S. statutory tax rate	34.00%	34.00%
Theoretical tax expense	-2,297	-3,086
Permanent differences	5	9
Other differences		1
Change in valuation allowance	2,292	3,076
Income tax expense

Income_Taxes_Details_Textual

Income Taxes (Details Textual) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Future taxable income to use net operating loss carryforwards before expiration	$129,095,000
Operating loss carryforwards, expiration description	Operating loss carry forwards between 2022 and 2034
Operating loss carryforward, available	$91,036,000
Income tax examination, description	The U.S. federal income tax returns remain subject to examination for the years beginning in 2011

Commitments_and_Contingencies_1

Commitments and Contingencies (Schedule of Changes in Asset Retirement Obligations) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Commitments and Contingencies [Abstract]
Asset Retirement Obligations, Beginning Balance	$483	$870
Liabilities Settled	-320	-276
Revision of Estimate		-111
Retirement Obligations, Ending Balance	$163	$483

Commitments_and_Contingencies_2

Commitments and Contingencies (Schedule of Future Minimum Lease Payments) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Commitments and Contingencies [Abstract]
2015	$284
2016	164
2017	161
2018	161
2019	13
Future minimum payments due, total	$783

Commitments_and_Contingencies_3

Commitments and Contingencies (Narrative) (Details)

0 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

Dec. 03, 2013

Mar. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2014

15-May-12

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2014

Sep. 17, 2014

Sep. 17, 2014

Sep. 17, 2014

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

Caesarea Israel Field Office [Member]

Caesarea Israel Field Office [Member]

Megiddo Jezreel License [Member]

Caesarea Asset Management And Development [Member]

Caesarea Asset Management And Development [Member]

Asher Menashe And Joseph License Areas [Member]

Drilling Contract with GYP

November 1, 2011 through October 31, 2012 [Member]

October 31, 2012 through October 31, 2013 [Member]

October 31, 2013 through October 31, 2014 [Member]

October 31, 2014 through October 31, 2015 [Member]

New Israeli Shekel [Member]

New Israeli Shekel [Member]

New Israeli Shekel [Member]

Foundations

USD ($)

ILS

acre

USD ($)

ILS

USD ($)

USD ($)

Dallas Office Space [Member]

Dallas Office Space [Member]

Dallas Office Space [Member]

Dallas Office Space [Member]

USD ($)

November 30, 2014 [Member]

March 31, 2015 [Member]

sqft

sqft

sqft

sqft

sqft

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

Commitments And Contingencies [Line Items]

Asset retirement obligation

$163,000

Liabilities settled to Joseph License area

320,000

276,000

320,000

Existing onshore license holders for performance guarantee guidelines requirement

930,000

On shore license holders base guarantee value

500,000

250,000

250,000

On shore license holders base guarantee additional value

250,000

On shore license holder base guarantee cumulative amount

750,000

Enacted royalty rate

12.50%

Initial levy rate on oil and gas profits

20.00%

Levy rate on oil and gas profits, maximum

44.56%

Recovery percentage

150.00%

Recovery percentage of investment before initial levy rate is applied

230.00%

Number of charitable foundations established

2

Percentage of royalty or equivalent interest

3.00%

Aggregate percentage of royalty or equivalent interest

6.00%

Area of property

3,600

5,565

5,565

6,566

6,566

Lease expiration date

31-Oct-11

Lease Amendment Description

Pursuant to the lease amendment, the lease term on the existing office space as well as the additional premises was extended to October 31, 2015.

Lease payment due, monthly

8,100

28,400

9,700

37,800

6,996

7,534

7,534

8,072

Sublease expiration date

Through March 31, 2014

Lease term

The lease term is five years from February 1, 2014 to January 31, 2019

Lease renewal description

The Company has an option to renew the lease for another five years, 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 furnishes a bank guarantee and insurance confirmation prior to commencement of option period.

Rent, taxes, utilities, insurance, maintenance expenses

306,000

256,000

Amended lease payment due, monthly, non-default

1,434

1,544

Lease payments on equipment and drill crew

627,000

Drilling contract demobilization expense

550,000

Bank guarantees to government

1,154,000

Bank guarantees to others

66,000

Aggregate guarantee amount

$1,220,000

Area of Land

99,000

Subsequent_Events_Narrative_De

Subsequent Events (Narrative) (Details) (Subsequent Event [Member], USD $)	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 02, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Exercisable through January 2, 2025 [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Shares granted under stock option plan (in shares)	128,500
Shares granted under stock option plan, exercise price	$1.38
Shares granted under stock option plan (in values)	$105,752
Exercisable through January 2, 2021 [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Shares granted under stock option plan (in shares)	108,000
Shares granted under stock option plan, exercise price	$1.38
Shares granted under stock option plan (in values)	68,375
Exercisable through January 1, 2025 [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Shares granted under stock option plan (in shares)	25,000
Shares granted under stock option plan, exercise price	$1.38
Stock options par value	$0.01
Stock options vesting description		The options shall vest in June 30, 2015.
Shares granted under stock option plan (in values)	$20,529