35 drowned at Israeli beaches in 2026 bathing season

The 2026 bathing season ended with a heavy toll: 35 people drowned at Israeli beaches, according to figures released by the Bathing Sites Division of the Interior Ministry. The season, which opened on 22 Nissan 5786 (9 April) following security conditions and Home Front Command directives, closed on 29 Tishrei 5787 (10 October).

The breakdown reveals where the danger lies: 20 people drowned at beaches declared off-limits for swimming, six at beaches with no official status, four at declared beaches outside lifeguard hours, and five at declared beaches during active lifeguard service.

Most drownings occurred in the Mediterranean, which claimed 31 lives. Two drowned in the Red Sea, one in the Kinneret, and one in the Dead Sea. Of the victims, 31 were men and four were women. Seventeen were aged 46 or older, and nine were between 19 and 45.

The 2025 bathing season recorded 31 drowning deaths, and the 2024 season saw 34. This year's rise is a concern, though the numbers remain close to previous years.

During the season, the Interior Ministry allocated approximately 35.5 million shekels for developing, upgrading and making beaches accessible, including rescue equipment and safety measures. The ministry also ran a public-awareness campaign on the dangers of unsafe swimming.

Interior Ministry director-general Yisrael Ozen said: "The bathing season data emphasises the importance of swimming at declared beaches during lifeguard hours. At the same time, the Interior Ministry is working to improve infrastructure, make beaches accessible and strengthen safety measures, in cooperation with local authorities. We will continue to invest in developing and upgrading beaches, with the aim of improving service to the public and enabling a safer and more accessible experience."

The 2027 bathing season will open on 7 Nissan 5787 (14 April 2027), a week before Pesach. The Interior Ministry says preparations for the coming season have already begun, including upgrading lifeguard stations and preparing additional infrastructure.