Jordan Develops Alternative Water Plan Amid Israel Deal Uncertainty

AMMAN - Jordan has developed an alternative plan to its agreement to purchase additional water from Israel, a government source told Reuters, amid uncertainty surrounding the renewal of the water-sharing deal.

The plan, initiated last year under the Prime Minister's directives, aims to ensure the sustainability of Jordan's water security, the source said. This move comes after the previous agreement, which supplied Jordan with 50 million cubic meters of water annually, expired three months ago and has yet to be renewed.

The agreement had been a crucial component of water cooperation between Jordan and Israel.

According to the source, Jordan's national interests will dictate the country's options and priorities regarding future actions on water management.

Furthermore, the source revealed that the final steps are underway to finalize the financial closure for the National Water Carrier Project with international and local bodies. The agreement is expected to be signed before the end of next month, with implementation beginning this year.

The National Water Carrier Project will provide Jordan with 300 million cubic meters of drinking water annually, addressing the country's needs and water deficit over the next decade.

Recent reports have suggested that Israel may not intend to renew the water sale agreement with Jordan.