As Dead Sea plans languish, gov't probe finds Israel still unprepared for climate change

Israel remains unprepared for the escalating impacts of climate change, according to a critical report by State Comptroller Matanyahu Englman. The audit, Englman's third on the subject since 2021, found that despite 74 climate-related decisions and approximately NIS 8.8 billion allocated over 18 years, the government has failed to establish a central system for tracking the effectiveness of this spending or the reduction of climate risks.

Key infrastructure for preparedness is notably absent. As of early 2026, Israel still lacked a binding climate law, despite years of legislative efforts. A ministerial committee on climate, formed in April 2023, had not convened a single meeting by the time of the audit. Furthermore, the Environmental Protection Ministry's Climate Change Preparedness Directorate operated with minimal staff and lacked formal authority over other government bodies responsible for climate risk management.

The report highlighted a significant gap in practical planning, with 25 out of 28 relevant ministries and public bodies failing to submit comprehensive climate-preparedness plans. Israel also had not completed a national assessment of the long-term macroeconomic effects of climate change, leaving critical sectors like infrastructure, public health, and agriculture vulnerable.

Despite the widespread shortcomings, the audit noted some progress. A carbon tax, implemented gradually from January 2025, is projected to generate substantial revenue. The government also committed funds for industry assistance and vulnerable populations. However, Israel is expected to miss its greenhouse-gas emission reduction targets for 2030 and falls short of its renewable electricity generation goals. The report also pointed to the receding shoreline of the Dead Sea as a stark visual consequence of governmental delay and environmental crisis.

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The writing is on the wall.