Jerusalem, 12 October, 2026 (TPS-IL) — Israel’s 2026 official bathing season has concluded with 35 sea drowning fatalities reported nationwide, according to the Ministry of the Interior. The season, delayed at its start by security restrictions and Home Front Command emergency guidelines, saw the vast majority of drownings occur at unauthorized beaches or outside lifeguard operating hours.
Ministry data indicates 31 fatalities occurred in the Mediterranean Sea, two in the Red Sea, and one each in the Sea of Galilee and the Dead Sea. Demographically, 31 of the victims were male. Local authorities will maintain active lifeguard services across 85 designated beaches during the winter months to maintain public safety.
