Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared a “national emergency” on Wednesday as fast-moving wildfires scorched areas west of Jerusalem, prompting mass evacuations, injuring several civilians, and threatening to engulf the capital itself.
Thick plumes of smoke rose above highways as firefighters, soldiers, and emergency personnel rushed to combat the fires, described as the worst Israel has seen in over a decade. Blazes broke out in multiple forested areas near the cities of Modiin, Latrun, and Bet Shemesh, spurred by high temperatures and fierce western winds.
“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. The western wind can push the fire easily towards the outskirts, and even into the city itself.”
Israel’s Magen David Adom (MDA) rescue service said 23 people had received medical attention, with 13 hospitalized for smoke inhalation and burns. Among the injured were two pregnant women and two infants. The agency raised its alert level to the highest tier.
Police closed the vital Jerusalem-Tel Aviv highway and evacuated at least five communities along the route. Video footage showed residents fleeing their homes and stranded motorists abandoning vehicles as flames advanced. A student witness told AFP, “The fire had already completely taken over the whole area.”
Fire Chief Eyal Caspi warned that aerial firefighting efforts were temporarily halted due to weather conditions. “Our aircraft can’t do anything right now… Our goal is to save lives,” Caspi said.
The Israel Defense Forces deployed soldiers from its Search and Rescue Brigade, along with 50 firetrucks and engineering vehicles to build firebreaks overnight. “We are apparently facing the largest fire in Israel in a decade,” Caspi added.
Police announced the arrest of an East Jerusalem resident caught allegedly attempting to ignite a field. Though no direct link to the main wildfires has been confirmed, National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir referred to “arson terror” and vowed aggressive investigations.
France’s President Emmanuel Macron extended solidarity and offered material assistance. The Israeli government has reached out to Greece, Cyprus, Italy, Bulgaria, and Croatia for firefighting support. Italy and Croatia are sending aircraft to join the containment efforts.
As firefighters battle to contain the inferno, Ben Gvir has ordered the cancellation of Independence Day events requiring firefighter presence. “We must redirect all available personnel to the emergency,” he said.
With communities still under threat and emergency services stretched thin, the situation remains critical. “It’s just very sad,” said Yuval Aharoni, a resident watching fires near Modiin. “We knew this weather would come. We weren’t ready.”
To follow up on this story, follow New Daily Prime for more.
