De-risking energy is a key element of geopolitical focus in our moment. This is especially true now, as energy security, diversifying supply routes, protecting shipping lanes, and insulating economies from disruption in the Strait of Hormuz are clear priorities.

Yet perhaps water deserves the same sort of concentrated attention. The Gulf’s water systems may be even more strategically vulnerable, while receiving only a fraction of the focus given to energy.

As COP30 in Belém nears, leaders are calling it the “implementation summit.” Trillions of dollars in climate funding are at stake in Brazil in mid-November. Every sector, from forests to AI, has dedicated Thematic Days. However, one critical issue is noticeably missing from the official agenda: peace.