MJ02 began directional drilling after the 2nd casing run was set at about 2400 meters. As you noted , there is no reason that MJ01 could not begin a directional run at about the same depth and at a different angle to reach another part of the formation. Not sure how this is compatible with MJ01's stated water monitoring mission, but they can work that out.
Nobody in their right mind would worry about "appeasing" Russian interest given the atrocities in Ukraine. Gazprom partnership would be an albatross and thankfully currently Gazprom is not at all partnered with Israel.