Defence Minister declares ‘national emergency’ amid international appeals for aid
Israel is facing a growing national crisis as fierce wildfires tear through areas near Jerusalem, prompting large-scale evacuations, road closures, and an urgent call for international assistance.
Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar confirmed on Wednesday that Israel had requested immediate support from neighboring countries, including Greece, Cyprus, Italy, Croatia, and Bulgaria, as the fires continued to spread uncontrollably through forested regions west of the capital.
The wildfires, which erupted earlier in the day, quickly escalated due to soaring temperatures and powerful winds. Several communities have already been evacuated, with residents fleeing on foot in some areas as thick smoke rendered roadways impassable. Highway 1, the major route linking Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, was temporarily shut down as emergency responders rushed to contain the blaze.
Defence Minister Israel Katz declared the unfolding situation a “national emergency,” stating that all available military and civilian resources had been mobilized.
“We are facing a national emergency, and every force must be brought to bear to save lives and bring the fires under control,” Katz said in a press briefing. “This is a race against time.”
The Magen David Adom (MDA) emergency service reported that at least 16 individuals have been treated for smoke inhalation, and hundreds more remain at risk as flames threaten to reach residential areas.
Helicopters have been deployed for aerial firefighting operations, while the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have dispatched units from the Home Front Command and Air Force, including search and rescue brigades, to assist local firefighters.
The wildfires have overshadowed national commemorations. Israel’s 77th Independence Day celebrations have been significantly disrupted, with the central ceremony in Jerusalem cancelled due to safety concerns. Authorities have also urged citizens to avoid lighting bonfires and refrain from outdoor cooking in non-designated areas.
The fires come just one day after Memorial Day observances, during which sirens sounded across the country in tribute to fallen soldiers. This year, however, the somber mood has been compounded by the environmental emergency unfolding in the Jerusalem hills.
International assistance has begun to arrive. Greece, Cyprus, Croatia, and Italy have responded to Israel’s appeal, sending aircraft, firefighting personnel, and equipment. Nonetheless, containment efforts remain challenging due to persistent high winds and dry conditions that are fueling the spread of the flames.
Authorities are urging residents in affected areas to follow evacuation orders and remain vigilant, warning that the fires continue to pose an imminent threat.
As one of the worst wildfire crises in Israel’s recent history unfolds, the nation’s emergency response capabilities and international partnerships are being pushed to the limit in the fight to protect lives and land.
