Health Ministry Advises Temporary Fishing Ban Near Mediterranean Desalination Plants

Israel's Ministry of Health has recommended a temporary ban on fishing in the Mediterranean Sea near water desalination facilities. This precautionary measure follows the treatment of an algal bloom in the area. The ministry cited uncertainty regarding the specific type of algae and the effects of the treatment as reasons for the recommendation, according to a statement from spokesperson Shira Solomon.

The ministry has forwarded its professional opinion to the Ministry of Agriculture, advising a preventative approach. The ban would apply to the treated area and an adjacent buffer zone. Fishing should only resume after monitoring results confirm that fish and marine life show no unusual indicators and pose no health risk to the public.

Officials emphasized that the recommendation is not based on a confirmed danger but on a desire to protect public health amid limited information. The ban specifically targets fishing activities and does not advise against consuming fish currently available in markets. The ministry also reassured the public that the treatment process has no impact on drinking water quality and consumption can continue as usual.