Health Ministry Advises Temporary Fishing Ban Near Ashkelon Amid Algae Treatment

Israel's Ministry of Health has recommended a temporary ban on fishing in the waters off Ashkelon and a surrounding buffer zone following the dispersal of approved drinking water treatment agents to combat a severe algae bloom. The algae have significantly impacted desalination facilities along the Mediterranean coast, disrupting operations. The ministry's recommendation stems from uncertainty regarding the specific algae species present and the full effects of the treatment.

A document from the Ministry of Health, revealed by Channel 13 News, highlighted concerns about potential human health risks, including the presence of algae species like Microcystis and Cylindrospermopsis, which can contain toxins harmful to the liver. While the presence of these specific dangerous strains has not been confirmed, the document urged extreme caution due to the urgency and lack of complete information.

Despite these concerns, the Ministry of Health emphasized that there is currently no proven risk to public health or the quality of drinking water. The recommendation for a fishing ban is a precautionary measure to protect the public and the food chain while information gaps are addressed. It does not apply to fish already in markets.

The algae crisis, which began on Sunday, has led to the shutdown of five out of six Mediterranean desalination plants. The Hadera plant remains fully operational, while Ashdod, Ashkelon, Shiqmona A, and Palmahim are either shut down or operating at reduced capacity. There is concern the algae may spread north to the Hadera plant.

Alternative water sources have been utilized, with Mekorot receiving approval to pump from previously restricted boreholes, resuming water supply to farmers, particularly in the Negev, after a two-day interruption. Experts are also exploring methods to manage the algae, such as encouraging growth that would cause them to become trapped in filters.