Israel Bans Fishing Off Ashkelon Coast Amid Algae Crisis
Israel temporarily bans fishing off Ashkelon's coast and south to the Gaza border amid concerns over an algae bloom and potential public health risks.
Jerusalem, 4 September, 2026 (TPS-IL) — Israel’s Agriculture and Food Security Ministry on Thursday announced a temporary fishing ban in an area stretching from the Ashkelon shoreline in the north to the Gaza Strip border in the south, extending up to 10 kilometers offshore.
Acting Veterinary Services Director Dr. Sergio Dolev signed the order amid concerns about a potential risk to public health following treatment carried out at sea in response to an algae bloom near desalination plants.
The decision was made after reviewing professional data and consulting with the Health Ministry.
The ban took effect immediately upon publication and will remain in place through Monday. Further measures will be considered based on monitoring results and additional findings.