this study of the conflict over the natural water resources of geographic palestine -- israel, the west bank, and the gaza strip -- is the first comprehensive examination of all the region's shared water sources and the economics of their use in agriculture, households, and industry. the author's detailed survey of the surface and groundwater resources provides essential data for understanding both the extent and limits of the water supply for israelis and palestinians. by focusing on both the scarcity and the commonality of the water resources, he demonstrates why water has become a contentious issue between israel and the palestinians. the author argues that a just solution of the conflict over water is an indispensable ingredient of a comprehensive settlement of the palestinian-israeli conflict.