For the past century and more, the region called the Middle East has been a geopolitical playground, maintained in a state of perpetual conflict as a bomb whose fuse can be lit at any time. This has exacted a terrible toll on the people of Palestine and Israel. LaRouche’s vision for the region promises productivity, not geopolitics. This is the Oasis Plan!

The Oasis Plan calls for the development of an infrastructure platform centered on addressing the terrible shortage of water in the area — a shortage of water that limits development and drives territorial conflict over the scarce natural supplies. We call for building water conveyances from the Mediterranean to the Dead Sea, and from the Red Sea to the Dead Sea. Desalination plants along the canals will provide abundant freshwater for all uses, including agriculture, while refilling the Dead Sea and creating hydroelectric power as the water descends more than 400 meters.

In addition to water and power, the region needs connectivity. Southwest Asia is the world’s pre-eminent hub for land-based connectivity. It stands at the intersection of Europe, Asia, and Africa. The latter two continents are expected to host most of the world’s growth over the coming generations. By expanding regional connectivity, freight could go from China to Egypt via Southwest Asia, with enormous potential for development of industry and market access along the transportation corridors.

By addressing the bright future of the region, and overcoming the terrible shortage of water, the Oasis Plan makes “political” solutions that seemed impossible, possible.