Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared a national emergency as fast-moving wildfires, driven by intense heat and strong winds, edge dangerously close to Jerusalem. The fires have already caused injuries and led to widespread evacuations across nearby communities.
Thick smoke engulfed highways near the capital on Wednesday, forcing authorities to close the main Jerusalem–Tel Aviv highway. Military troops were deployed to support overwhelmed firefighters, while police urged the public to avoid the affected areas. Emergency services provider Magen David Adom (MDA) reported treating 23 individuals, including two infants and two pregnant women. Thirteen people were hospitalized with smoke inhalation and burns.
Netanyahu emphasized the severity of the situation, warning that “the western wind can push the fire easily towards the outskirts of Jerusalem—and even into the city itself.” He stressed that protecting Jerusalem remains the top priority.
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Fire chief Eyal Caspi stated that firefighting aircraft could not be deployed due to hazardous weather conditions. He described the wildfire as potentially the most significant the country has faced in a decade.
Authorities suspect arson in at least one case. A man was arrested in East Jerusalem for allegedly attempting to set a field on fire.
In response to the crisis, Israel has requested international assistance. Aircraft from Italy and Croatia are expected to arrive soon, and appeals for help have also been made to Greece, Cyprus, and Bulgaria.
