Breaking Update
Government Report Disputes Calls to Ban Trawl Fishing in Israel
A new Israeli government report challenges calls to ban trawl fishing, citing evidence of improving marine ecosystems and fish populations.
Jerusalem, 23 March, 2026 (TPS-IL) — A new report by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, compiled with academic and marine research institutes, indicates improving conditions in Israel’s marine ecosystem under current fishing regulations. The findings show increases in biomass and species populations, which officials say reflect recovery following stricter limits, including expanded no-trawl zones, seasonal bans and reduced vessel activity.
The report challenges recent claims by the Society for the Protection of Nature calling for a full ban on trawl fishing, arguing they rely on flawed data. The fishing industry argues that shutting down trawling — responsible for about half of Israel’s catch — could harm local production and increase reliance on imports.
