Water as Strategic Prize: CIA's Middle East Concern

0:00This is Cory, and here's what is making news across Sydney right now. The CIA views drinking water as the real strategic prize in the Middle East, even more vital than oil or gas. Gulf countries depend on nearly 450 desalination plants to turn seawater into fresh water for millions. These facilities keep cities running in the arid region, and experts warn they could tip the balance in any escalating conflict between the United. States and Iran. For decades, the CIA has warned policymakers about the risks of this heavy reliance. Back in the early 1980s, declassified reports noted that local leaders saw water as key to national survival. While international law protects these plants, recent strikes show their vulnerability, like Iran's attack on a power station in the United Arab. Emirates and debris sparking a fire at a Kuwaiti facility. The human stakes are huge. In Saudi Arabia, one major plant near Jubail provides over 90 percent of Riyadh's water through a pipeline stretching about 500 kilometers.

1:02Damage there could force mass evacuations in just a week, threatening the government's stability. Cities in Kuwait, Qatar, and Dubai face total dependence with little backup. Countries have added some redundancies since old warning surfaced, but the plants remain easy targets for Iranian missiles. Hitting them directly would mark a major escalation, likely too risky for Tehan right now. Iran seems focused on softer targets to endure a drawn-out fight, betting on economic pain for its foes. History shows the danger, like Iraq polluting Gulf waters during the 1991 war to harm desalination. Water is irreplaceable, so everyone hopes attacks stay off the table. This story is made possible by our sponsor, see the episode description. If sleep podcasts are your thing, this is your pillow, build for comfort and calm, S-O-L-I-SoliPillow.com.