Jerusalem: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared a “national emergency” as wildfires rage across central Israel, threatening Jerusalem and prompting mass evacuations.
Thick smoke blanketed major highways near Jerusalem on Wednesday. Firefighters rushed to contain the flames. Military troops were deployed to assist as the fires spread rapidly due to high temperatures and strong winds.
Dozens Injured, Communities Evacuated
Israel’s Magen David Adom (MDA) reported 23 people injured, including two pregnant women and two infants. Thirteen victims were hospitalized with smoke inhalation and burns.
Authorities evacuated thousands from at least five communities west of Jerusalem. Police shut down the main Jerusalem-Tel Aviv highway, urging the public to avoid the area.
Netanyahu: “This is Not Just Local — It’s National”
In a video address, Netanyahu warned,
“The western wind can push the fire into Jerusalem. We must send in as many fire engines as possible and build firebreaks.”
He added,
“The priority is defending Jerusalem. This is a national emergency.”
Aircraft Grounded, Flames Spread
Fire Chief Eyal Caspi said weather conditions had grounded firefighting planes.
“Our aircraft can’t operate. The goal now is to save lives,” he said.
Residents described the chaos.
Yuval Aharoni, a local, told reporters:
“We knew this could happen. Yet, we weren’t ready. Big planes should have been deployed earlier.”
Possible Arson?
National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir suggested arson may be a cause. Police arrested an East Jerusalem resident caught attempting to start a fire in the city’s south.
However, no official confirmation has linked the suspect to the wider blaze.
Military, Medics, and Global Aid
Soldiers joined efforts by mid-afternoon. Helicopters circled above as drivers abandoned vehicles to escape flames. MDA teams remained on standby in risk zones.
Ben Gvir visited the fire-hit areas.
“We are working to evacuate everyone and bring more support,” he stated in a video message.
Israel has appealed to Greece, Cyprus, Croatia, Italy, and Bulgaria for help. Netanyahu’s office confirmed that firefighting planes from Italy and Croatia are en route.
Worst Fire in a Decade
Fire chief Caspi confirmed,
“This is apparently the largest fire in Israel in ten years.”
The scenes near Latrun and Bet Shemesh show vast stretches of burning forest. Flames engulfed vegetation, darkening skies and displacing hundreds.
Police, firefighters, and medics remain on high alert as Israel races to control the disaster.
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