Rare Mediterranean shark attack claims diver’s life

A snorkeler was attacked and killed off the coast of Hadera, Israel. Experts describe it as one of the rarest shark incidents ever recorded in the Mediterranean. Authorities believe the shark responsible was a dosky shark (Calcarinus Dark), a species long thought to be harmless to humans in this region. Forensic confirmation has yet to be done, but marine biologists say the evidence strongly points to this species.

The attack occurred near a hot water outflow from a local power plant. This area is popular among divers as large sharks regularly appear there. These sharks are drawn to the area by rising water temperatures and increased fish activity. For years, locals and tourists have flocked there for close encounters, but authorities have repeatedly warned that feeding or approaching sharks can provoke an aggressive response.

First in the Mediterranean

Why this case stands out

If the Hadera incident is confirmed, it would be the first recorded fatal incident involving a John shark in the Mediterranean. Red sharks live in warm to temperate oceans, but are rarely known to pose a threat to humans. In most cases, the encounter ends without injury. This has led some scientists to call the April attacks a statistical anomaly rather than a new trend.

Still, the event has reignited debate about changing ocean behavior in a warming ocean. Rising water temperatures and changing migration patterns are bringing species into greater contact with humans, both in the Mediterranean and beyond. Experts emphasize that even normally calm species can exhibit unpredictable behavior when stressed, competing for food, or becoming accustomed to being fed by humans.

Important points

• The fatal accident occurred near Hadera on Israel’s Mediterranean coast.
• The culprit is believed to be a dusky shark (Calcarinus Dark), and are usually not aggressive towards humans.
• Local conditions such as warm runoff and fish concentrations may have contributed to the unusual behavior.
• Officials advised against diving or feeding sharks in the area until further notice.

The incident highlights how easily the predictable lure of warm water that attracts marine life can outweigh caution and turn curiosity into danger. Divers and tourists often underestimate the risks when approaching wild animals in their natural environments. Species that have long been considered “harmless” can become aggressive when provoked or fed.

Awareness is key for swimmers, snorkellers and divers. Simple actions like obeying closures, avoiding swimming at dusk or dawn, and not feeding wildlife can greatly reduce an already small risk. Statistically, shark attacks in the Mediterranean remain extremely rare, especially compared to other coastlines around the world.

Should foreigners be concerned?

The British community forms one of the largest expatriate groups in Europe, with hundreds of thousands of nationals living in Spain, France, Portugal, Cyprus and Greece. With such a large coastal population, the occasional headline about shark sightings naturally raises concerns, but the data paints a reassuring picture.

According to the World Marine Accident Database, only a few shark attacks have been recorded in European waters in the past few decades, and almost none of them involved foreign nationals living in Spain. Most incidents in southern Europe involve tourists engaged in fishing, spear diving, or swimming in secluded areas. For those who go to the beach every day, the chance of encountering a dangerous shark remains close to zero.

That being said, it’s always wise to be aware. Many expats spend much of the year in the water, swimming, diving, and paddleboarding. Staying informed about local conditions, especially near warm waters, fish washing areas, or areas where feeding has been reported, is the easiest way to ensure safety.

Swimmer and diver safety

practical instruction

• Always follow warnings from lifeguards and local authorities.
• Avoid swimming at dusk when visibility is poor.
• Do not enter the water near fishing activity or if you see fish remains.
• If you spot a shark, calmly move away from the water and avoid sudden splashes.
• Do not feed or touch marine wildlife.

For foreigners living in coastal areas of Spain, Italy, or Greece, the lessons from Hadera are clear. Please respect the sea, enjoy it sensibly and remember that the Mediterranean Sea remains one of the safest major bodies of water in the world. While this incident shocked many, it is not a sign of increased danger and remains an extremely rare event.