Health Ministry Warns Against Fishing Near Ashkelon After Algae Treatment

Israel's Ministry of Health has issued a warning against fishing off the coast of Ashkelon following an unusual experiment conducted by the Water Authority. The experiment, aimed at eliminating algae that disrupted desalination plant operations, involved aerial spraying of three substances, including copper sulfate at a concentration 27 times the standard limit, over a 9-kilometer stretch of sea, extending to within one kilometer of the shore.

The ministry is recommending a fishing ban within the treated area and a buffer zone extending one kilometer from the coast. This recommendation is based on observed water currents and insufficient information about the algae species, some of which could be harmful to humans and contain toxins affecting the liver and causing irritation. The ministry suggests the ban remain in place until monitoring confirms normal conditions.

The operation was conducted as an experiment without prior notification to relevant parties or the public. Despite the concerns raised by the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Energy and the Water Authority stated that the water economy is functioning normally, and the Sorek A desalination facility has resumed operations.