A major wildfire outbreak near Jerusalem has triggered a national emergency in Israel, prompting an urgent international appeal for assistance.
As the flames rapidly spread due to extreme heat and strong winds, thousands of residents have been forced to evacuate, and key transportation routes have been shut down.
Wildfires Near Jerusalem Prompt Emergency Response
The wildfires have scorched over 10,000 dunams (approximately 10 square kilometers) of forest and land, posing a serious threat to communities surrounding the Israeli capital. Emergency authorities have closed Highway 1 — the main road connecting Jerusalem and Tel Aviv — to ensure public safety as thick smoke and advancing flames overwhelm the area.
Israel Requests International Firefighting Support
In response to the escalating crisis, Israel has issued a formal international request for firefighting aid. Several countries have answered the call:
Greece has dispatched firefighting aircraft to assist on the front lines.
Italy is sending aerial reinforcements equipped to battle large-scale wildfires.
Croatia has deployed specialized firefighting planes to aid in containment efforts.
These countries join Israeli firefighting teams and military units working around the clock to control the blaze and protect both residents and infrastructure.
Cause of the Jerusalem Wildfires Under Investigation
While the full cause of the wildfires remains under investigation, Israeli authorities are focusing efforts on containment and recovery. Over 150 firefighting units, including helicopters and ground crews, have been deployed in the affected regions.
