The ongoing conflict in West Asia is not only affecting security and economies, but also worsening an already serious water crisis in the region. Countries in the Gulf are among the most water-stressed in the world, and the impact of war is making the situation even more fragile.
According to global data, about 83 per cent of people in this region already live under extremely high water stress. This means that most of the available water is used every year, leaving very little margin for shortages. Experts warn that by 2050, almost the entire population in the region could face severe water stress.
Unlike many other parts of the world, Gulf countries do not have large rivers or natural freshwater sources. To survive in such dry conditions, they depend heavily on desalination plants. These plants convert seawater into drinking water and are a lifeline for millions of people.
In fact, the Gulf region produces around 40 per cent of the world’s desalinated water, with more than 400 such plants operating across countries. Around 100 million people depend on these facilities for their daily water needs.
Different countries in the region rely on desalination to varying degrees. Kuwait depends on it for about 90 per cent of its drinking water. Oman gets around 86 per cent, Saudi Arabia about 70 per cent, and the United Arab Emirates about 42 per cent.
This heavy dependence means that any damage to desalination plants can have immediate and serious consequences. Even a short disruption can lead to water shortages, as most countries do not maintain large reserves of freshwater.
Recent attacks have highlighted this vulnerability. In early March, a desalination plant in Bahrain was damaged during the conflict. Soon after, another facility in Kuwait was reportedly struck, affecting water supply services.
Such incidents show how critical infrastructure is becoming a target in modern conflicts. When water facilities are hit, it is not just a military issue—it directly affects civilians, including families, hospitals and businesses.
The lack of backup water sources makes the situation even more risky. If multiple plants are damaged or shut down, millions of people could face immediate shortages of drinking water.
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The water crisis in the Gulf is not limited to drinking water alone. It also affects food production, energy systems and overall public health. Water is essential for agriculture, and shortages can lead to reduced crop production and higher food prices.
In some countries, water scarcity has already led to public protests. For example, Iran has been facing long-term drought and declining groundwater levels. In recent years, people have taken to the streets to protest water shortages and rising costs of living.
Earlier this year, protests in Iran were partly linked to food prices, which were affected by water shortages. This shows how closely water, food and economic stability are connected.
Energy systems are also linked to water. Desalination plants require large amounts of energy to operate. Any disruption in energy supply due to conflict can further affect water production. At the same time, damage to water infrastructure can impact industries that rely on steady water supply.
Healthcare is another major concern. Lack of clean water can lead to hygiene problems and increase the risk of diseases. Hospitals and emergency services depend on reliable water supply, and disruptions can affect their ability to function properly.
The situation becomes even more complex because all countries involved in the conflict are already dealing with water stress. This means that there is very little capacity to handle additional pressure caused by war.
Experts warn that targeting water infrastructure can turn a difficult situation into a full-scale crisis. It can create long-term problems that continue even after the conflict ends.
To manage this risk, countries need to protect critical infrastructure and invest in alternative solutions. These may include better water storage systems, improved efficiency in water use, and technologies that reduce dependence on a single source.
International cooperation is also important. Water is a shared resource, and regional stability depends on how it is managed. Efforts to reduce conflict and protect essential services can help prevent further damage.
The current situation in West Asia highlights a larger global issue. As climate change and population growth increase pressure on resources, water is becoming more valuable and more vulnerable.
In the Gulf region, where water scarcity is already severe, the impact of conflict is especially dangerous. Protecting water systems is not just about survival today—it is about ensuring stability and security for the future.
The crisis serves as a reminder that water is not just a resource, but a basic necessity. When it is caught in the crossfire of war, the consequences can be far-reaching and long-lasting.
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