Israel Refuses to Renew Water Supply Agreement with Jordan, Raising Tensions

Israel has declined to renew the water supply agreement that provides Jordan with additional discounted water, a key component of their peace treaty, according to a report by Kan News on Monday evening. The agreement, which has not yet been signed for the current period, currently shows no signs of imminent renewal. This development has sparked anger in Jordan, with sources indicating that the kingdom may respond to Israel's refusal. While Jordan has not officially commented on the failure to renew the water agreement, a Jordanian official close to the government told Kan News that water remains a critical issue and an integral part of the peace treaty. This statement reflects Jordan's dissatisfaction with Israel's approach, which has turned the previously stable water issue into a bargaining chip. Jordan faces severe water shortages and relies heavily on this agreement with Israel. Additionally, behind-the-scenes diplomatic tensions have surfaced; in March, it was reported that King Abdullah II of Jordan conditioned a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on several demands, including the renewal of the water supply agreement. Further complicating relations, Jordan refused to recall its ambassador to Israel after his term ended, leaving the position vacant and signaling strained diplomatic ties.