The 1964 Jordan River Diversion Plan: Transboundary Water Basins and Conflict

Water scarcity and its management have emerged as critical factors shaping the global security landscape, especially in transboundary river basins. Population growth is outstripping water supply, and climate change is affecting it as well. Since 1990, freshwater resources have declined by 58%, globally, and the situation is more acute in some regions. Thus, the potential for violent conflict triggered by water is a realistic scenario. Nevertheless, the literature implies that water conflicts are typically settled by peaceful means. This case study suggests that continued peaceful resolution of interstate water conflicts is inconsistent with the realities of the emerging global security landscape. This case study examines the complex relationship between water, geopolitics, and conflict, exposing how competition over this finite resource has fueled tensions and ignited interstate war. Such was the case in the Jordan River valley when in 1964 the Arab League planned to divert its headwaters, thus disrupting Israel’s freshwater supply. Israel prevented the project’s development by conducting airstrikes against the project. Furthermore, water may have been a critical strategic factor during the 1967 Six-Day War. Readers should come to understand the intersecting factors of politics, economics, and interbasin conflicts that exacerbate tensions and hinder effective resolution. Furthermore, this case study should lead the reader to understand the complexities of water conflict, and demonstrate the issues that policymakers, scholars, and practitioners can solve and work toward crafting holistic approaches to address one of the most pressing environmental security challenges of this century.