Energy Minister Admits No Clear Change in Algae Situation Post-Spraying

Energy Minister Eli Cohen acknowledged on Monday that "since the water spraying experiment, we have not seen a significant change in the algae situation." He stated that findings are expected within the next two days and estimated that, in the worst-case scenario, repairs to damaged membranes at desalination plants could cost tens of millions of shekels. Cohen also indicated there is no timeline for the algae's disappearance from the sea.

Israel remains committed to supplying Jordan with 50 million cubic meters of water as per their agreement. If necessary, the intake pipe for desalination facilities will be extended westward to draw water from uncontaminated areas. The Water Authority announced it would purchase a dedicated stock of membranes for desalination plants to ensure continuous supply to residents and the agricultural sector.

Currently, water supply relies on a combination of active desalination plants, the Sea of Galilee, and hundreds of boreholes nationwide, supplemented by national reservoirs filled over the weekend by Mekorot. The Water Authority reported on Friday that systems had stabilized, and water supply was uninterrupted, attributing this to dynamic operations at desalination facilities and increased water flow from the Sea of Galilee and boreholes.

Following a report that the Water Authority initiated the release of toxic pesticides, including copper sulfate at 27 times the standard dose, into the sea near Ashkelon, it was stated that the dispersal of authorized substances was approved by an inter-ministerial committee. The materials are not considered a risk to swimmers, and environmental monitoring is underway. A temporary fishing ban in the area was issued by the Ministry of Health as a precautionary measure pending monitoring results, with assurances that fish in markets and beaches are safe.