JERUSALEM: Wildfires erupted on the outskirts of Jerusalem on Wednesday, prompting the evacuation of nearby communities and the closure of a major highway, as Israel sought international assistance to contain the fast-moving blaze.
Thick smoke and flames engulfed the hills surrounding the capital, with dramatic television footage showing fires burning dangerously close to Route 1 — the main highway linking Jerusalem to Tel Aviv. In scenes of panic, motorists were seen abandoning their vehicles and fleeing on foot as fire crews struggled to hold back the advancing flames.
The Israeli government has reached out to international allies for help. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed that firefighting aircraft from Italy and Croatia were en route. Additional appeals were made to Greece, Cyprus, and Bulgaria, the Foreign Ministry said.
According to Israeli media, over 120 fire and rescue units have been mobilized, deploying dozens of ground teams, helicopters, and firefighting aircraft. The Israeli military announced that its search and rescue forces are also aiding efforts on the ground.
At least three communities were evacuated as a precaution, police said, and 13 people have been injured, though no fatalities have been reported as of Wednesday evening.
The outbreak coincided with Israel’s Memorial Day for fallen soldiers, disrupting national commemorations. Several ceremonies marking the eve of Israel’s Independence Day were cancelled, including the main state event in Jerusalem.
Hadassah Medical Center, located on the city’s outskirts, issued an urgent public advisory, asking people not to visit unless absolutely necessary. The hospital began evacuating stable patients to free up resources for those potentially injured in the fires and is preparing for a possible influx of emergency cases.
Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire, but high temperatures and dry conditions have significantly heightened wildfire risk across central Israel.
As firefighting efforts continue into the night, officials warn that shifting winds and dry brush could cause further flare-ups, urging the public to remain alert and follow safety instructions.
