Egyptian algae disrupt water desalination plants in Israel

The microalgae off the Israeli coasts have caused an increase in the turbidity of the seawater, leading to technical issues at several desalination plants. 

Hussein Abu Saddam, the head of the farmers' union in Egypt, said in a press interview seen by "Video News Agency" that the small size of some algae and phytoplankton allows them to pass through the initial filtration stages, which may partially block the treatment system and weaken operational efficiency, potentially leading to temporary shutdowns.

Abu Saddam added that the rising water temperatures and climate changes create better conditions for the growth and spread of algae from one area to another.

Israeli reports linked the disturbances to the spread of these algae, suggesting that some may have moved from the Nile Delta to the north due to water movement and sea currents in the Mediterranean. 

The issue is particularly sensitive as Israel relies heavily on seawater desalination to secure a crucial part of its water needs.