After the neighboring countries of Egypt and Libya both gained independence Egypt–Libya relations were initially cooperative. Libya assisted Egypt Arab-Israeli War. Later, tensions arose due to Egypt's rapprochement with the west. Following Libyan–Egyptian War, relations were suspended for twelve years. However, relations have steadily improved. With the progressive lifting of UN and US sanctions on Libya from 2003–2008, the two countries have been working together to jointly develop their oil and natural gas industries