A massive wildfire is sweeping through Israel, putting the historic city of Jerusalem at risk. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared a national emergency, warning that the fire could reach the city itself. The situation is dire, with thick plumes of smoke billowing above highways and firefighters racing to control the blaze.
*The Fire's Impact*
The wildfires have already injured several people, with 23 treated for smoke inhalation and burns, including two pregnant women and two infants under a year old. Thirteen people have been hospitalized. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have deployed troops to aid firefighters, and the Magen David Adom (MDA) rescue agency has raised its alert level to the highest tier ¹ ².
*Evacuations and Firefighting Efforts*
Thousands of people have been evacuated from areas near the fire zone, including communities west of Jerusalem. The IDF is assisting with evacuations and firefighting efforts, with aerial support providing real-time operational oversight. Around 120 firefighting teams, supported by helicopters and planes, have been deployed to contain the flames ³.
*International Assistance*
The Israeli government has reached out to several countries, including Greece, Cyprus, Croatia, Italy, and Bulgaria, for assistance in fighting the fires. Three aircraft are expected to arrive soon from Italy and Croatia to help combat the blaze ⁴.
*Cause of the Fire*
There are concerns that the fire may have been intentionally set, with some sources suggesting a terrorist act. Eli Beer, president of the United Hatzalah emergency response organization, believes the fire was a deliberate attack on Israel, citing multiple fires started in separate locations. Hamas has posted calls for Palestinians to set fires and damage Israeli property ⁵.
*Netanyahu's Warning*
Prime Minister Netanyahu has emphasized the gravity of the situation, warning that the western wind could push the fire towards Jerusalem's outskirts and even into the city itself. "We need to bring as many fire engines as possible and create firebreaks well beyond the current fire lines... The priority right now is defending Jerusalem," he said in a video statement ¹.
*Conclusion*
The situation remains critical, with firefighters battling to contain the blaze. The national emergency declaration underscores the severity of the crisis. As the situation develops, international aid and cooperation will be crucial in helping Israel bring the fires under control.