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Israeli Settlers Seize Irrigation Pipeline, Divert Fasayil Water

8/14/2026

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Summary

Story summary

In June, Israeli settlers seized farmer Saad Nemer’s irrigation pipeline in the West Bank and diverted water from the Fasayil spring to fill a pool marketed as a tourist site.
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich pledged a 3 million-shekel ($1 million) investment to develop the pool, naming it “Herod’s Pools.”
Palestinian Authority water official Adel Yassin called the act a “water war.”

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Story summary

In June, Israeli settlers seized farmer Saad Nemer’s irrigation pipeline in the West Bank and diverted water from the Fasayil spring to fill a pool marketed as a tourist site.
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich pledged a 3 million-shekel ($1 million) investment to develop the pool, naming it “Herod’s Pools.”
Palestinian Authority water official Adel Yassin called the act a “water war.”