Persian Gulf desalination plants could become military targets in regional war

Key sources of drinking water have been targets in past conflicts. And Iranian strikes have already hit close to some.

By: Michael Christopher Low, University of Utah, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: March 5, 2026

Words: 838

Last Updated: 4 days, 14 hours ago

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By Michael Christopher Low, University of Utah

Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and neighboring countries in the Persian Gulf region use the fossil fuels under their desert lands not only to make money, but also to make drinking water. The petroleum they produce powers more than 400 desalination plants, which turn seawater into drinkable water.

In the war that began on Feb. 28, 2026, with U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran, retaliatory attacks …

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