Concern Over the Collapse of Israel’s Coastal Cliff: “It is in a Clear and Ongoing Trend of Erosion”
Experts Warn of Increasing Threats
Professor Dov Zvielli, a coastal processes specialist, has raised alarms regarding the ongoing erosion and collapse of Israel’s coastal cliffs. He asserts that the situation is worsening, necessitating urgent attention and substantial financial resources beyond what is currently allocated.
“The issue requires national-level budgets and efforts that far exceed the present provisions,” Zvielli stated, highlighting the need for significant actions to protect both the cliffs and the beaches adjacent to them.
Governmental Efforts Insufficient
Despite efforts from the government and the Ministry of Environmental Protection to address the complications posed by coastal erosion, Zvielli believes these initiatives fall short. “The municipalities lack the capacity to address these issues within their existing budgets,” he explained. He emphasized that handling the coastline’s complications requires extensive economic support.
“Unless the state engages fully, we will continue to lose additional areas of the cliff. We remain vulnerable to damages to property and loss of life,” he warned, adding that the situation will only deteriorate further if left unchecked.
Proposed Solutions for Coastal Management
Professor Zvielli suggested that addressing cliff erosion must follow two primary strategies: mitigating the friction with waves at the seabed and improving the drainage of water from the top of the cliff. This approach is crucial to prevent excess water, which comprises about 80% of the soft sand cliff, from seeping into the cliff itself and exacerbating the damage.
The Urgency of Action
As Israel continues to face heavy rainfall and associated flooding events-such as those witnessed in Ashkelon in November 2025-experts stress the critical need for immediate and effective measures to safeguard the coastal regions.
In light of these warnings, the call for increased national funding and action to preserve these vital coastal areas has never been more pressing. The ongoing trend of coastal erosion highlights the precarious nature of these ecosystems and the potential risks to property and safety.
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