Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared a national emergency as the country battles its most severe wildfires in over a decade, threatening communities near Jerusalem and forcing mass evacuations.
Fueled by soaring temperatures and fierce winds, the blazes blanketed highways west of the capital in thick smoke, shutting down the main Jerusalem–Tel Aviv artery and pushing flames dangerously close to homes and infrastructure. Firefighters, backed by police and military forces, scrambled to contain multiple infernos, but aerial firefighting efforts were suspended due to hazardous conditions.
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“We are now in a national emergency, not just a local one,” Netanyahu said in a video statement. “The priority right now is defending Jerusalem.”
Israel’s emergency medical service, Magen David Adom, reported treating 23 people — including two pregnant women and two infants — for burns and smoke inhalation, with 13 hospitalised. At least five communities, including areas near Bet Shemesh and Modiin, were evacuated, as residents voiced frustration over perceived lack of preparedness despite prior warnings of extreme weather.
Authorities have arrested a man from east Jerusalem suspected of attempted arson, though links to the broader wildfires remain unconfirmed. National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir suggested arson may have played a role and said international assistance is being mobilized. Firefighting aircraft from Italy and Croatia are expected to arrive shortly after Israel appealed for help from Greece, Cyprus, Bulgaria and others.
“We are prioritising life-saving measures,” said Fire Chief Eyal Caspi, noting that aircraft remain grounded due to high winds and low visibility.
With fires raging visibly along the critical Latrun corridor, drivers abandoned vehicles and fled on foot, deepening public anxiety over the expanding disaster.
