Critical Vulnerabilities in Persian Gulf Desalination Threaten Regional Stability and U.S. Interests

While the world’s attention often zeroes in on oil shipments from the Persian Gulf, a far more immediate and less visible risk lurks beneath the surface: drinking water. The recent escalation in hostilities involving Iran has revealed a dangerous vulnerability—the region's extensive network of desalination plants is at growing risk, threatening not just local populations but U.S. national security interests tied to Middle Eastern stability. Why Is Water the New Frontline in Gulf Security? The Persian Gulf states have built modern societies atop one of the harshest deserts on Earth. Their secret weapon? Desalination plants that turn saltwater into fresh...