8 - Riparian disputes since 1967

Summary

In order to substantiate the argument about the perception of conflict, we explore, in this chapter, the four areas of actual or potential conflict in the Jordan basin since 1967. They are: (1) the question of a dam on the Yarmouk, (2) exploitation of the Yarmouk waters, (3) the subterranean sources in Wadi Araba (ha-Arava) and, (4) the subterranean sources of the West Bank. As in the preceding chapters, our discussion highlights, where appropriate, those variables that influence riparian dispute and determine its outcome.

We find that in none of the four areas has relative power favored the Jordanians or the Palestine Arabs. On the contrary, it has favored Israel, or, as in the case of the Maqarin Dam, a combination of Israel and Syria. In only one of the four areas, the West Bank, can the water resources in question be considered essential for the survival of the State of Israel. (And in part for this reason, Israel is acutely concerned about the future status of this territory.) Hence the perception that this constitutes a source of conflict with the Arabs. In contrast, in at least two and possibly three of the areas, the waters are fundamental to the security concerns of Arabs.