JERUSALEM — A series of intense wildfires have erupted in the forested hills between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, fueled by extreme heat and strong winds. The fires have forced evacuations of multiple communities, led to the temporary closure of the main Route 1 highway, and prompted Israel to declare a national emergency., reported the TRT.
The blazes, which began on Wednesday, have scorched approximately 5,000 acres (20 square kilometers) of pine forest, making it one of the most severe wildfires in Israel’s recent history. Thick smoke blanketed Jerusalem, causing hazardous air quality and leading to the cancellation of several Memorial Day and Independence Day events.
Emergency services have been stretched thin, with over 120 firefighting teams, supported by the Israel Defense Forces, police, and volunteers, battling the flames. At least 20 firefighters have sustained minor injuries, and more than a dozen civilians have been hospitalized due to smoke inhalation.
In response to the escalating crisis, Israel has appealed for international assistance. Firefighting aircraft and crews have arrived from several countries, including Italy, Croatia, Spain, France, Ukraine, Romania, North Macedonia, and Cyprus. Additional support has been pledged by Greece and Egypt.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that all available resources are being deployed to save lives and contain the fires. Investigations into the cause of the wildfires are ongoing, with authorities not ruling out the possibility of arson.
As firefighting efforts continue, authorities urge residents in affected areas to remain vigilant and adhere to evacuation orders and safety guidelines.
