Full coverage· Security· Updated 4 Sept, 17:22

Algae Bloom Halts Israel's Desalination Plants; Gaza Sewage Suspected

Most of Israel's desalination plants have halted operations due to a widespread cyanobacteria bloom, with Gaza's sewage suspected as a contributing factor.

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Algae Bloom Halts Israel's Desalination Plants; Gaza Sewage Suspected — Illustration by baba

What happened

01Algae bloom forces shutdown of most Israeli desalination plants.
02Gaza sewage discharge is a suspected cause of the bloom.
03Water supply remains stable, but experts express concern.
04Sinai desalination plants also affected, suggesting a regional issue.
05Chemical dispersant used near Ashkelon, followed by fishing ban.

While authorities assure water stability, experts warn of a more serious situation, and a fishing ban was imposed near Ashkelon after a chemical dispersant was used.