Wildfire ravages Israel, sparks national emergency

Tel Aviv: A massive wildfire raging through Israel has led to a national emergency, forcing thousands to evacuate and sending thick smoke clouds over Jerusalem.

Authorities have termed the blaze one of the worst in the nation's history. It began on Wednesday — the same day as Israel's Memorial Day for fallen soldiers — and has rapidly spread due to strong winds and dry weather conditions.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has raised concerns about the fire's progress, cautioning that it might reach Jerusalem.

"This is a national emergency, not just a local one," he said.

Emphasising the urgency, Netanyahu added, "The priority right now is defending Jerusalem," and called for additional fire engines and the creation of firebreaks.

As the wildfire neared Route 1, the vital highway connecting Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, chaos ensued. Authorities had to close the road, and social media footage captured drivers abandoning their vehicles and fleeing on foot as flames advanced.

Firefighters, with support from military personnel, worked tirelessly to combat the blaze under skies thick with smoke. The Israel Defence Forces confirmed their involvement in firefighting and evacuation efforts, utilising aerial support for real-time operational insights.

Israel's emergency medical service, Magen David Adom (MDA), reported treating 23 individuals, including 13 hospitalised for burns and smoke inhalation. The agency issued a warning about the ongoing risk to hundreds more, describing the wildfire as the worst the country has faced in years.

Around 120 firefighting teams from various parts of Israel, along with helicopters and planes, have been mobilised to combat the wildfire. An additional 22 teams are on their way to assist in the efforts.

Five communities have already been evacuated, while others remain on high alert for potential evacuation. A section of the Jerusalem-Tel Aviv highway is still closed due to the ongoing crisis.

Magen David Adom (MDA) reported that medics are treating 12 individuals for mild smoke inhalation, including two infants. The wildfires, fuelled by unusually high temperatures of approximately 35°C and wind gusts reaching up to 70 km/h, continue to challenge containment efforts.

Eyal Caspi, Commissioner of the Fire and Rescue Authority, confirmed that the national emergency plan has been activated, with the alert level raised to its highest.

"Following a situational assessment, firefighting teams were being mobilised from all districts nationwide," he told the media, as reported by Xinhua.

Deputy Commander of the Jerusalem District Fire and Rescue Authority, Eyal Cohen, confirmed that Israel has sought international firefighting assistance from neighbouring countries.

According to state-owned Kan TV, the nations contacted include Greece, Cyprus, Croatia, and Italy.

As the wildfire continues to spread, Memorial Day ceremonies have been affected. The Defence Ministry has cancelled the official observance at the Latrun Armoured Corps Memorial and advised the public to avoid military cemeteries, where large gatherings were anticipated.

Israel is observing Memorial Day for fallen soldiers from sunset on April 29 to nightfall on April 30 this year.

(inputs from IANS)