A national emergency has been declared in Israel as massive wildfires, fueled by dry conditions and strong winds, rage across the country, particularly in the areas surrounding Jerusalem. The rapid spread of the blazes has forced thousands of residents to evacuate their homes, with harrowing scenes of people abandoning their vehicles on major highways to flee the encroaching flames.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has warned that the fires could reach Jerusalem itself, emphasizing that this is “a national emergency, not just a local one.” He has called for a significant increase in firefighting resources and the creation of firebreaks to protect the capital.
Eyewitness accounts and social media footage depict chaotic situations as the fires approached critical infrastructure, including the main highway connecting Tel Aviv and Jerusalem (Route 1). Many motorists were forced to leave their cars behind as flames leaped across the roadway, creating a dangerous and unpredictable environment.
The Magen David Adom (MDA), Israel’s emergency medical service, has reported treating at least 23 people, with 13 hospitalized for smoke inhalation and burns. They have cautioned that hundreds more civilians remain at risk as the “worst wildfires in years” continue to burn. Among those injured are two pregnant women and two infants, highlighting the widespread impact of the disaster.
Firefighting teams, numbering over 100 and supported by aircraft and helicopters, are working tirelessly to contain the inferno. However, strong winds, reaching up to 96 km/h, and unseasonably high temperatures of around 35 degrees Celsius are exacerbating the situation and hindering containment efforts. Eyal Caspi, Commissioner of the Fire and Rescue Authority, stated that the national emergency plan has been activated, and all available resources are being mobilized.
Israel has appealed for international assistance, and several countries have responded. Italy and Croatia are expected to send three firefighting aircraft, and support has also been pledged by Greece, Cyprus, Spain, France, Romania, and North Macedonia.
National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir suggested that arson could be a potential cause of the fires, and police have reported the arrest of a resident from East Jerusalem on suspicion of attempting to ignite vegetation. An investigation is underway to determine the cause and whether multiple incidents of arson may have occurred.
The wildfires have also impacted national observances, with Memorial Day ceremonies being cut short and Independence Day celebrations scheduled for Thursday being largely cancelled out of respect for the unfolding crisis and hazardous conditions.
The current situation evokes memories of the devastating 2010 Mount Carmel fire, which resulted in significant loss of life and widespread destruction. There are growing fears that the current blazes could surpass that catastrophe in scale if not brought under control swiftly.
As the fires continue to rage, the priority remains the safety and evacuation of residents and the protection of Jerusalem. Authorities are urging the public to avoid affected areas, adhere to evacuation orders, and exercise extreme caution to prevent any further incidents. The coming hours will be critical in determining the extent of the damage and the success of the firefighting efforts.