Israel Wildfires Trigger National Emergency as Massive Blaze Nears Jerusalem, Thousands of Acres Burned
Israel is facing one of the most devastating wildfires in its history as a massive blaze that began in the Eshtaol Forest near Mesilat Zion has rapidly spread, prompting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to declare a national emergency. The wildfire, which erupted on Wednesday, was fueled by scorching temperatures, dry conditions, and powerful winds reaching up to 60mph. The situation escalated dangerously as the flames barreled toward Jerusalem, raising fears of severe damage to residential areas and critical infrastructure in the city.
According to Shmulik Friedman, commander of the Jerusalem district fire department, the inferno may be the largest ever witnessed in Israel. By Friday, approximately 6,000 acres of land had been scorched, including 2,000 acres of forest, leaving a trail of destruction across the countryside. Firefighters have made significant progress, containing most of the major hotspots, although smaller fires are still being tackled across the region. The Jewish National Fund, which oversees the country’s forests, confirmed the continued firefighting efforts even after the worst flames had been subdued.
The wildfires have led to widespread evacuations, the temporary closure of several major roads, and the cancellation of Independence Day and Memorial Day ceremonies, including a prominent event at Mount Herzl. Jerusalem came under serious threat as the westerly winds pushed the fire dangerously close to the city limits. Video footage captured the terrifying scenes of residents abandoning their vehicles and fleeing on foot as fire engulfed roadsides and threatened homes.
Among those affected were three Catholic religious communities who had to evacuate on Wednesday. They were able to return the following day, although Farid Jubran, a spokesperson for the Latin Patriarchate, confirmed that significant damage had occurred to agricultural lands, including vineyards and olive groves, as well as to some buildings. Thankfully, no injuries were reported among these communities, and historic churches remained unharmed.
At least a dozen individuals have been hospitalized due to smoke inhalation, and several firefighters have sustained injuries while battling the flames. Israel’s Fire and Rescue services reported that 155 firefighting teams have been deployed across fire hotspots in the Shfelet Yehuda region. In addition to ground crews, aerial firefighting efforts have been intensified, with the Elad Squadron’s planes conducting numerous sorties to prevent the fire from reaching homes and settlements.
The Israeli government has appealed for international support, receiving assistance pledges from Italy, Croatia, and North Macedonia. The Palestinian Authority has also extended an offer of help, though Israel has not officially responded. Authorities are actively investigating the cause of the wildfire, with arson being considered a possibility. Several individuals have already been arrested in connection with suspected deliberate fire-starting.
This catastrophe has not only endangered lives and property but has also disrupted national celebrations and placed immense pressure on emergency services. As Israel grapples with the aftermath and ongoing threats of rekindling fires, the need for swift recovery efforts and enhanced fire prevention strategies has become more urgent than ever.
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