Court to Hear Petition Against Phosphate Mining Near Negev Spring

The Beersheba District Court is set to hear a petition challenging planned phosphate mining near the Ein Yeriqam spring in the Negev, a project fiercely contested by environmental activists and local residents. The initiative involves expanding the Oron North mine, allowing excavation work and controlled explosions just 500 meters from the popular desert oasis and the Israel National Trail.

Environmental advocates argue that the approval process, rushed through at the outbreak of the war, was fundamentally flawed and denied the public any genuine opportunity to object. Tour guide and activist Yoni Stern criticized the project, stating that sacrificing a rare archaeological and tourism site for a brief extension of mining operations is unjustified. Activists also point out the massive economic disparity, noting that the deposit contains roughly one million tons of phosphates valued at around $250 million, while state royalties remain minimal.

In response, ICL defended the initiative, emphasizing its critical role in regional employment by supporting approximately 1,000 direct jobs in the periphery. Simon Wallin, chief geologist and raw material manager at Rotem Amfert, stated that operations strictly comply with environmental regulations and are coordinated with the Nature and Parks Authority. Wallin noted that blast quantities and frequencies are legally restricted, and all explosive work is completely suspended during the vulture nesting season from December to May.