JERUSALEM: Israel is facing one of the most intense wildfire disasters in its history. The fires, which erupted near Jerusalem, have scorched more than 5,000 acres, including about 3,200 acres of forest land.
National Emergency Declared
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared a national emergency. Authorities have evacuated at least nine communities. Major roads, including the key Tel Aviv–Jerusalem route, were temporarily shut down.
The government deployed 163 ground firefighting teams, 12 aircraft, and military units to combat the flames. Israel also received international aid from countries such as Italy, Spain, France, Ukraine, Romania, Croatia, North Macedonia, and Cyprus, who sent aircraft and firefighting equipment.
Injuries and Health Crisis
The fires have injured over 40 people, including 20 firefighters and more than 20 civilians. Most victims suffered from smoke inhalation. Among them were two pregnant women and two infants.
Emergency teams are working nonstop to treat the injured. Medical facilities in Jerusalem and surrounding areas are on high alert. The Ministry of Health has advised people to avoid the outdoors and limit exposure to smoke.
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Cause Under Investigation
The exact cause of the wildfires remains unclear. Authorities initially suspected hiker negligence. Later, rumors of arson emerged. Prime Minister Netanyahu stated that 18 suspects were arrested. However, police later confirmed only three arrests, with one suspect currently in custody.
Experts have also linked the fires to climate change. Recent drought conditions and record-high temperatures have made forests across Israel extremely dry and prone to fire.
Firefighters Gain Control
Firefighters have managed to contain much of the blaze. Several evacuation orders were lifted. Authorities have also reopened major highways and restored access to previously blocked areas.
Despite this progress, officials remain cautious. Fire teams continue to patrol and monitor the affected zones for flare-ups. Residents are urged to stay alert and follow emergency advisories.
Environmental and Economic Impact
Environmentalists warn of long-term damage. Thousands of acres of woodland have been lost. Wildlife habitats are destroyed. The economic cost is still being assessed but is expected to run into millions of dollars.
Agricultural fields, homes, and public infrastructure have also sustained damage. Insurance companies report a surge in claims related to fire losses.
International Support Praised
The Israeli government thanked foreign partners for their rapid response. “We are grateful to our friends around the world who stood by us in this critical hour,” said Netanyahu. Global coordination, especially the arrival of foreign aircraft, helped reduce the fire’s spread.
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