National Emergency Declared in Israel Over Worst Wildfires in a Decade

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared a national emergency as fast-moving wildfires near Jerusalem threaten to reach the city. The blazes, fueled by high temperatures and strong winds, have already injured several people and forced evacuations across multiple communities.

Thick smoke blanketed highways near the capital on Wednesday, prompting the military to deploy troops to assist overwhelmed firefighters. Police shut down the main Jerusalem–Tel Aviv highway and urged the public to avoid the area.

Israel’s emergency agency, Magen David Adom (MDA), said it treated 23 people, including two infants and two pregnant women. Thirteen were hospitalized for smoke inhalation and burns.

“The western wind can push the fire easily towards the outskirts of Jerusalem—and even into the city itself,” Netanyahu warned. “We are now in a national emergency. The priority is defending Jerusalem.”

Fire chief Eyal Caspi said firefighting aircraft couldn’t operate due to weather conditions, calling it potentially the largest fire Israel has seen in a decade.

Authorities suspect arson in at least one instance, with police arresting a man in East Jerusalem for attempting to ignite a field.

Israel has reached out to Greece, Italy, Croatia, Cyprus, and Bulgaria for help. Netanyahu’s office confirmed that firefighting aircraft from Italy and Croatia are expected to arrive soon.