WHO CONTROLS THE TAP OF THE MIDDLE EAST? Water, Occupation, and the Asymmetry of Palestinian-Israeli Access
WHO CONTROLS THE TAP OF THE MIDDLE EAST? Water, Occupation, and the Asymmetry of Palestinian-Israeli Access EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: 1. Hydrological Asymmetry: In the arid landscape of the Middle East, water is the ultimate geopolitical leverage. The Palestinian-Israeli conflict is not just about land; it is about who controls the aquifers and river flows. Israel controls the vast majority of water sources in the region, while Palestinians face severe scarcity and dependency on supply lines controlled by others. 2. Structural Inequality: The disparity in water consumption between Israeli settlers and Palestinians in the West Bank is stark. While settlers enjoy abundant water for agriculture, swimming pools, and daily life, many Palestinian communities must buy expensive water from tanker trucks or endure prolonged supply cuts. 3. Water as a Tool of Control: Access to water is frequently used as a tool of political control and pressure. Restrictions on well-drilling permits, the demolition of...