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Wildfires Near Jerusalem Force Evacuations, Road Closed
Wildfires broke out on the outskirts of Jerusalem on Wednesday, prompting the evacuation of nearby communities and the closure of a key highway. Israel has requested international help to combat the blaze.
TV footage captured the dramatic scene along Route 1, the major highway connecting Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, showing people fleeing from their cars as thick smoke blanketed the hills.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Italy and Croatia would send three firefighting planes to assist Israel, with Greece, Cyprus, and Bulgaria also being called upon for aid, according to the Foreign Ministry.
Israeli media reported that 120 fire and rescue units, including aircraft and helicopters, were deployed to tackle the flames. The Israeli military’s search and rescue forces were also involved in the operation.
Three communities were evacuated, with at least 13 people injured, though no fatalities have been reported. The fire broke out on Israel's Memorial Day for fallen soldiers, and many events, including the main Independence Day ceremony in Jerusalem, were cancelled due to the emergency.