Israel Faces Unprecedented Water Crisis, Minister Cites 20-Year Natural Phenomenon

Israel's Energy and Infrastructure Minister, Eli Cohen, described the current water crisis as a "natural phenomenon not seen in twenty years." He announced measures to increase pumping from wells and the Sea of Galilee, alongside the activation of two additional desalination plants to ensure supply.

In response to the shortage, the minister confirmed that the supply of potable water to agriculture and public landscaping has been reduced. The ministry is exploring the possibility of activating more desalination facilities to support the agricultural sector, while assuring the public of a stable water supply for all households.

Despite these assurances, residents in Beersheba reported significant drops in water pressure and disruptions across numerous neighborhoods. Earlier, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development warned of an exceptional water shortage that could cause irreversible damage to agriculture and disrupt food production.

The crisis is exacerbated by the recent shutdown of nearly all of Israel's desalination plants. A highly unusual and turbid wave originating from Egypt's coast severely impacted seawater quality, forcing the plants to cease operations. Despite efforts to gradually resume activity overnight, the high turbidity necessitated a complete halt, with only the Hadera plant continuing to operate normally.