WILDFIRES sweeping through forested areas near Jerusalem have led to a national emergency in Israel, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warning that the fire could soon reach the capital city itself.
The fires, described as some of the most severe the country has faced in recent years, have forced widespread evacuations and prompted international assistance.
Heavy smoke has engulfed highways and nearby communities, causing panic among residents and leading to significant disruptions in transportation.
One of the country’s busiest roads, the Jerusalem-Tel Aviv highway, was shut down as authorities rushed to move people to safety. Several neighbourhoods and towns in the affected region were evacuated as the flames rapidly spread.
Emergency responders have been working tirelessly to contain the fires. Firefighters, supported by the military, are operating under difficult conditions as dry weather and strong winds fan the flames.
According to Magen David Adom, Israel’s national emergency service, around 23 people have been treated for injuries so far, with 13 requiring hospitalisation due to smoke inhalation and burns. Among the victims were two pregnant women and two infants under the age of one.
A student, Yosef Aaron, who was evacuated from the area, described the scene to AFP, saying, “A lot of police and firefighters arrived, but it didn’t help. The fire had already consumed the entire area.” His account echoed the desperation felt by many who were forced to leave their homes behind as flames approached.
There are also suspicions that some of the fires may have been deliberately set. National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir suggested arson could be to blame, and police reported the arrest of a resident from East Jerusalem caught allegedly trying to ignite a fire in the southern part of the city.
However, no direct connection has yet been made between the arrest and the major blazes currently burning.
In a video statement, Prime Minister Netanyahu issued a stark warning, stating that strong western winds could push the fire further towards Jerusalem. “We need to bring as many fire engines as possible and create firebreaks well beyond the current fire lines. We are now in a national emergency, not just a local one. The priority right now is defending Jerusalem,” he said.
International support is being mobilised. Netanyahu’s office confirmed that three firefighting aircraft from Italy and Croatia would be arriving shortly to assist Israeli forces in battling the flames.
French President Emmanuel Macron also expressed solidarity, offering material assistance and voicing support for Israel in a message posted on social media.
The situation remains critical, with emergency crews on high alert as dry weather conditions continue. With the risk of fires spreading into Jerusalem, authorities are focusing efforts on creating barriers to protect the city and surrounding areas.
