The conflict over water in the Middle East has gained presence in the agenda since the middle of the last century. Food shortages are becoming increasingly serious as a result of water resources degradation, population growth and distribution based on power rather than the needs of the population. Addressing the problems of shortages and the conflicting burden of power-based distribution requires efficient and negotiated water management among all parties involved.
The influence of the principles established by the Helsinki Rules and the 1997 Convention in the agreement between Israel and the PLO for water management is minimal when not void. In the Israeli negotiations with the Jordanians and Palestinians, the main factor was the status quo ante and the power relationship between the different parties, ie the Israeli arrogance that allows it to impose fait accompli without taking into account the needs of the other actors in the basins. In view of the two agreements, it can almost be said that Israel has applied the Harmon doctrine on the resources of the interior of its territory and has extended its sovereignty also to the resources claimed by Palestinians in the West Bank (including East Jerusalem). The shortage of water will be even more serious in the future and the policy imposed by Israel does not help at all to deal with the problem with guarantees. Moreover, the current agreements establish totally counterproductive management models, which will be reflected in greater difficulties for the weak, even in terms of survival for the Palestinian population. For this reason, it is more necessary than ever for future negotiations to be based on the principles established by the 1997 Convention, as they can lead to efficient management and conflict resolution.
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