In 2024, according to the Water Conflict Chronology database of the Pacific Institute, around 61% of water-related incidents involved targeted attacks on water infrastructure. Targeting water infrastructure would therefore have a devastating impact on water resources in general, and especially on access to drinking water,” the expert stressed. Desalination: a pillar of water securityThe Middle East and North Africa (MENA) is among the most water-scarce regions in the world. In the MENA region, water availability is about 1,200 cubic metres per person per year, nearly six times lower than the global average of around 7,000 cubic meters. Asked about lessons for North Africa, Rhili stressed that “Arab countries are now on maximum alert regarding water resources.

Source: The North Africa Journal March 23, 2026 08:12 UTC