Full Breakdown
Fatal Incident at Ashdod Oil Refinery: Investigation Underway
2/11/2026, 10:05:10 PM
Overview of the Incident
On Wednesday, two women in their 50s were found unresponsive at the Ashdod oil refinery, leading to their deaths, which are suspected to be due to oxygen deprivation. Magen David Adom (MDA) and United Hatzalah confirmed that paramedics attempted prolonged resuscitation efforts but were ultimately forced to pronounce the women dead at the scene. Initial reports suggest a malfunction in their protective suits may have prevented adequate oxygen supply.
Details of the Incident
The incident occurred within the refinery's laboratory, which spans approximately 1,000 dunams (250 acres) and employs around 400 workers. The refinery is responsible for producing about 40% of Israel's fuel and cooking gas. Authorities, including the Israel Police and Fire and Rescue Services, responded promptly and ruled out any hazardous materials leak, stating there was no danger to the public or other employees.
Ariel Even-Danan, commander of the Ashdod region fire station, indicated that the initial suspicion of a hazardous materials incident was quickly dismissed after scanning the area revealed no toxic substances. The police have opened an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident, emphasizing the need to determine the exact cause of the malfunction in the protective suits.
Historical Context
This incident is not the first fatal accident at the Ashdod refinery. In January 2013, two workers died after inhaling hydrogen sulfide while repairing a malfunction without proper protective gear. Attorney Dafna Fischer, who represented the estate of one of the 2013 victims, expressed concern over recurring safety issues at the facility, highlighting the need for lessons learned from past incidents to be implemented effectively.
Official Statements & Responses
The Ashdod refinery stated that its certified in-house first aid team provided initial treatment before MDA crews arrived. The company has committed to conducting its own internal review of the incident and has reported the matter to relevant authorities, including the Environmental Protection Ministry.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics have pointed to a pattern of negligence at the refinery, with past incidents raising questions about safety protocols. Attorney Dafna Fischer remarked on the tragedy of repeated fatal accidents linked to alleged failures in safety measures, urging thorough investigations to ensure accountability and prevent future occurrences.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While initial reports suggested a hazardous materials leak, subsequent investigations by Fire and Rescue Services confirmed no such leak was present. This discrepancy highlights the need for clarity in the ongoing investigation to determine the exact cause of the incident.
Verbatim Quotes
- “When we arrived at the scene, we were directed to two women, approximately 45 years old, who were lying without a pulse and not breathing,” — Simcha Hassid, MDA Volunteer
- “We carried out prolonged resuscitation efforts including chest compressions, ventilation and medication, but ultimately had to pronounce them dead at the scene.” — Hila Bizawi, Paramedic
- “at this moment there is no risk of hazardous materials leaking outside the facility and no danger to the public.” — Israel Police Statement
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths of the two women continues, with authorities seeking to ensure safety measures are adequately enforced at the Ashdod oil refinery.
