Settlers Divert Water from Palestinian Village Source to Ancient Pool

Israeli settlers in Judea and Samaria have diverted water from a spring that supplied the Palestinian village of Fasayil, redirecting it to an ancient pool near an archaeological site. Local residents reported that in June, settlers cut an irrigation pipe and rerouted the water flow to the pool, which they refer to as "Herod's Pools." This spring has historically been crucial for Fasayil's agricultural irrigation and partially supplemented inconsistent household water supplies. Following the diversion, farmers have experienced significant irrigation difficulties and crop damage. The site is now being promoted as a tourist attraction, with Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announcing approximately 3 million shekels for its development and restoration.

However, Alon Arad, an archaeologist with the Israeli organization Emek Shaveh, stated that the pool's origins are unclear. He also expressed concern that using water to fill the pool could harm the archaeological site itself.