The recent wildfires in Israel have been brought under control after extensive efforts from firefighting teams. Although the fires caused injury and property damage, no fatalities were reported, allowing authorities to lift evacuation orders for affected towns.
Fires Under Control in Israel Following. Massive Evacuations
Fires Under Control in Israel Following. Massive Evacuations
Major wildfires have largely been extinguished in central Israel, following a national emergency response and community evacuations.
Fires that have swept through central Israel over the past few days are reportedly under control, according to the country's Fire and Rescue Authority. Over 150 firefighting teams battled these wildfires, which scorched approximately 20 square kilometers (7.7 square miles) of land in the Latrun region, situated between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.
Israel's ambulance service has indicated that at least 12 individuals received treatment for smoke inhalation; however, fortunately, no fatalities have occurred. Reports suggest that 17 firefighters sustained injuries during the extensive fire-fighting efforts. Ayalon fire station’s deputy commander, Shlomi Harush, described the event as one of the most challenging fire incidents he has encountered in his 24 years of service.
In response to the escalating situation, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared a national emergency, prompting hundreds of residents to evacuate their homes. Thankfully, evacuation orders for 12 towns near Jerusalem have been lifted as the situation stabilizes. Various countries, including France, Italy, and Spain, dispatched aircraft to assist with firefighting efforts.
The wildfires disrupted many traditional events meant to commemorate Israel's Independence Day, leading to the cancellation of numerous official celebrations and imposing a nationwide prohibition on outdoor barbecues.
A key highway between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv has reopened following the calming of the fire situation. Footage shared online previously depicted residents fleeing as flames and smoke engulfed roads. Authorities have offered inconsistent explanations regarding the fires' origins. While Israeli President Isaac Herzog cited the climate crisis as a contributing factor, Netanyahu claimed arsonist activity was to blame, asserting that 18 arrests were made. Contradictory statements from Israeli police later clarified that only three suspects were in custody, with no connections to the wildfires confirmed.
