Daijiworld Media Network- Jerusalem
Jerusalem, May 1: A ferocious wildfire tearing through central Israel has plunged the nation into a state of emergency, prompting mass evacuations, road closures, and disrupting national Memorial Day ceremonies.
Described as one of the worst wildfires in the country’s history, the inferno erupted on Wednesday and rapidly spread due to blistering heat and powerful winds, casting thick smoke across the skyline of Jerusalem. The blaze broke out just as Israelis marked Yom HaZikaron (Memorial Day) for fallen soldiers, turning what is typically a solemn day into one of chaos and fear.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called it a “national emergency,” urging the mobilization of all available resources to protect Jerusalem and nearby communities. “The priority right now is defending Jerusalem,” he said, as firefighters worked round the clock to create firebreaks and stop the advancing flames.
The blaze brought traffic to a standstill on Route 1, the major highway connecting Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, as authorities shut it down amid terrifying scenes of motorists fleeing on foot with flames licking the roadside.
Over 120 firefighting teams have been deployed, aided by military forces and aerial units. Another 22 teams are being rushed in to reinforce containment efforts. Israel’s emergency service, Magen David Adom (MDA), reported treating 23 individuals, including two infants, with 13 of them hospitalised due to burns and smoke inhalation.
The Israel Defense Forces confirmed its active role in evacuation efforts and real-time surveillance through drone and air support.
So far, five communities have been evacuated, with several others on high alert. Winds gusting up to 70 km/h and temperatures hovering around 35°C have severely hampered containment efforts.
Eyal Caspi, Commissioner of the Fire and Rescue Authority, stated that Israel has now activated its highest alert level, with all national firefighting forces on standby. Deputy Commander of Jerusalem District Fire Services, Eyal Cohen, confirmed that Israel has requested international firefighting assistance from Greece, Cyprus, Croatia, and Italy.
Memorial Day ceremonies were disrupted, with the Defence Ministry cancelling key events and advising the public to avoid military cemeteries due to fire risk.
As of now, emergency services remain on high alert, bracing for the wildfire’s potential encroachment into the capital, while the nation prays for relief and safety.