Israel Dumps Toxic Algaecides into Mediterranean Sea Near Ashkelon

Israel's Water Authority initiated a large-scale operation on Wednesday, releasing significant quantities of toxic pesticides into the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Ashkelon. The action was taken in an attempt to eradicate a harmful algal bloom that was disrupting desalination facilities.

The operation involved a combination of three chemical agents, including copper sulfate at concentrations 27 times higher than the permitted standard. These substances were dispersed by a plane belonging to the Chemavir company over a nine-kilometer stretch of sea, extending to within one kilometer of the shore and several kilometers from the Zikim beach.

This experimental measure was reportedly carried out without prior notification to relevant authorities and, according to the report, without informing the public. The potential environmental and health consequences, including the safety of fishing in the area, are now under review.