The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has taken a perilous turn, with recent strikes on desalination facilities that serve as lifelines for millions in one of the world’s driest regions. As tensions flare between Iran and its regional adversaries, analysts warn that water has become a weapon in this escalating war, threatening the very foundation of survival for water-scarce nations in the Arabian Peninsula.
Targeting Critical Infrastructure
Over the weekend, both Iranian and Bahraini forces launched attacks on desalination plants, crucial for providing drinking water to a population with limited freshwater sources. Bahrain accused Iran of deploying a drone to strike one of its facilities, a move that followed claims that the United States had targeted a desalination plant on Iran’s Qeshm Island, impacting water access for 30 villages. This marked a significant departure from earlier skirmishes, where collateral damage had threatened infrastructure but not directly targeted it.
“Damage to any one part can halt water delivery,” noted Lalit Mohan, a consultant in water management, highlighting the fragile nature of these facilities. The latest assaults signal a troubling strategy shift, with both sides willing to jeopardise civilian resources that are vital for survival.
The Fragility of Desalination Systems
Desalination plants are integral to the Gulf region, which possesses only 2% of the world’s renewable freshwater but is home to some of its fastest-growing urban centres. Countries like Kuwait and the UAE rely on these facilities for approximately 90% of their drinking water, while Oman and Saudi Arabia are not far behind. Yet, these plants remain poorly defended against attacks.
“The plants are as exposed as any other civilian infrastructure,” remarked Ed Cullinane, Middle East Editor at Global Water Intelligence. The open-air design of these facilities makes them vulnerable to the same weaponry used against military targets. Cyber threats also loom large; Iran has previously demonstrated an ability to disrupt water systems remotely, raising alarms about potential cyberattacks on Gulf infrastructure.
The Humanitarian Crisis Looms
The ramifications of these assaults extend beyond immediate water shortages. According to the World Resources Institute’s Aqueduct Water Risk Atlas, 83% of the Middle East’s population is already experiencing severe water scarcity. This situation is compounded by Iran’s own water crisis, as drought has left its reservoirs severely depleted and cities vying for dwindling groundwater supplies.
Experts like David Michel warn that the conflict could escalate into a broader humanitarian disaster. “There is a real danger of a humanitarian crisis in Iran, not just due to the war, but also due to water scarcity,” he stated. This highlights the interconnectivity of water security and regional stability.
Legal and Ethical Implications
The targeting of civilian infrastructure raises serious concerns under international humanitarian law. Dr Evelyne Schmid, a professor of international law, emphasised that desalination plants are civilian objects that must not be targeted, and doing so constitutes a grave violation of international norms. She called for investigations into these incidents to uphold accountability.
Michel further noted that targeting water infrastructure offers a strategic advantage for Iran, allowing for precise escalation without the broad repercussions of closing the Strait of Hormuz. This could apply pressure on civilian populations, potentially fuelling demands for peace from those who find themselves without a reliable water supply.
Why it Matters
The recent escalation in attacks on desalination plants signifies a dangerous evolution in Middle Eastern conflict, where water is weaponised in a region already facing severe scarcity. As nations grapple with the implications of this new front, the humanitarian consequences could be dire, with millions at risk of losing access to life-sustaining resources. The situation demands urgent international attention and coordinated efforts to protect civilian infrastructure from the ravages of war—before the taps run dry.
