Jerusalem Wildfires Update: Israel Reports Blaze Mostly Under Control as European Aid Arrives

Live – Updated at 4:58 AM

Israel ' friends in Europe are set to deliver assistance within the next few hours to address the raging fire. wildfires after prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared the circumstance as a state of emergency , begging for global assistance.

Wildfires raging outside of Jerusalem have reportedly obliterated nearly 5,000 acres of terrain , encompassing 3,000 acres of woodland, as reported by the Fire and Rescue Services.

Firefighting aircraft from Greece, Cyprus, Croatia, and Italy are set to arrive soon to combat the fire, with indications that Ukraine, Spain, France, and others have pledged to provide assistance as well.

The origin of the fires remains unknown; however, Mr. Netanyahu stated that 18 individuals were detained for allegedly starting the wildfires.

A minimum of twelve individuals have been admitted to hospitals, while ten others received treatment from healthcare providers at the scene.

This could be the biggest fire this nation has ever seen, Jerusalem 'Ss district fire department chief Shmulik Friedman informed journalists on Wednesday afternoon.

He cautioned that wind speeds reaching 60 miles per hour were complicating matters significantly and had the potential to substantially heighten the fire danger "in the coming days."

It will persist for an extended period. We are still far from gaining control.

Key Points

• Israel announces state of emergency amid raging wildfires close to Jerusalem.
• Israeli police apprehend a person suspected of starting a fire.
• At least 22 individuals have received assistance from emergency services because of the wildfires.
• Israel wildfires mapped
• 5,000 acres of terrain have been obliterated
• Allied nations step up to support Israel.

Wildfires Near Jerusalem Mostly Under Control

04:58 , Stuti Mishra

The significant wildfires close to Jerusalem have mostly been brought under control, stated the Jewish National Fund, responsible for managing the nation’s forests. However, ongoing firefighting activities are still being used to tackle residual hotspots.

The evacuation orders have been rescinded, and key roadways, such as the principal artery connecting Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, have resumed traffic.

Foreign aid has strengthened fire suppression activities, with nations like Italy, Croatia, Spain, France, Ukraine, Romania, North Macedonia, and Cyprus dispatching aerial firefighting resources.

The evacuation orders for about a dozen towns in the Jerusalem Hills were rescinded on Thursday.

04:30 , Tara Cobham

The Israel Fire and Rescue Authority rescinded the evacuation orders for around a dozen communities in the Jerusalem Hills on Thursday.

On Wednesday, three Catholic religious groups had to leave their homes due to unrest but managed to come back on Thursday, according to Farid Jubran, the spokesman for the Latin Patriarchate. He mentioned that their farmlands, which included grapevines and olive groves, sustained significant harm, along with some structures being impaired. However, fortunately, nobody was injured, and none of the ancient churches faced damages.

The principal route connecting Jerusalem with Tel Aviv was reopened on Thursday, following a day when fires neared the thoroughfare, causing motorists to leave their vehicles behind and evacuate in fear. Early Thursday, extensive charred zones could be seen along the roadway, with patches of pale flame-retardant powder coating blackened trees and shrubs. The atmosphere remained thick with smoke and the acrid scent of burning.

Watch: Wildfires in Israel Force Closure of Critical Tel Aviv-Jerusalem Highway as Flames Darken Skies

04:00 , Tara Cobham

What caused the Israel wildfires? At least 18 suspects arrested over possible arson link

03:00 , Tara Cobham

Israel ’s prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that 18 individuals were taken into custody for allegedly sparking blazes outside Jerusalem , where one was supposedly apprehended during an alleged arson incident, as the nation fought what may have been its most severe wildfires on record.

"This could be the biggest fire this nation has ever seen," Jerusalem's district fire department commander Shmulik Friedman stated to journalists on Wednesday afternoon.

Although the precise reason for the blazes around Latrun remained unknown, Mr Netanyahu mentioned that the fire "was not a straightforward matter."

My colleague Maroosha Muzaffar reports:

What caused the Israel wildfires? At least 18 suspects as arson link probed

Fires occurred following a large forest fire that resulted in 44 fatalities in Israel in 2010.

02:00 , Tara Cobham

The fires follow a large forest fire from 2010 that lasted for four days in northern Israel's Mount Carmel region, resulting in 44 fatalities.

That fire also devastated approximately 12,000 acres, with a significant portion being woodlands.

View: IDF tackles Israeli wildfire with Jerusalem-Tel Aviv road closed

01:00 , Tara Cobham

The organization overseeing Israel's woodlands claims that climate change exacerbated the intensity of the fires.

Friday, May 2, 2025 at 12:00 AM , Tara Cobham

According to an organization responsible for managing Israel's forests, climate change, which led to reduced precipitation in the area, exacerbated the intensity of the fire.

Anat Gold, who leads the central region of Israel for the Jewish National Fund — referred to by its Hebrew abbreviation KKL, an organization involved in forestry management, tree planting, and promoting settlements within the Holy Land — commented, "Naturally, during a sequence of dry years, this creates favorable conditions for wildfires."

Intense fires at this time of year are uncommon for Israel.

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 11:00 PM , Tara Cobham

In Israel, wildfires frequently occur during summer months, yet having intense blazes at this time of year is uncommon. A lot of Israel’s woodlands are artificially established instead of being naturally grown.

An organization overseeing Israel's woodlands stated that the blazes were fueled by ideal circumstances for spreading: a season marked by scarce rainfall, coupled with warm and arid climatic conditions, alongside unusually powerful gusts of wind that kept changing directions continually.

Shown: Fire-fighting planes transport water to extinguish the fire.

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 10 PM , Bryony Gooch

Jerusalem wildfire in numbers

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 9:00 PM , Bryony Gooch

5,000 acres of land devastated by the wildfires.

At least 15 countries proposing to dispatch assistance to Israel to douse the fires.

At least 23 people attended to by Magen David Adom for smoke inhalation and burns as of Thursday morning.

21 firefighters mildly hurt after battling the fire.

Benjamin Netanyahu said 18 people Several individuals were taken into custody on suspicion of starting the fire, whereas authorities have stated that they apprehended them solely for questioning. three people on suspicion of arson.

What does Israeli Independence Day represent?

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 8:00 PM , Bryony Gooch

Israeli Independence Day, celebrated as Yom Ha'atzmaut, is a nationwide festivity marking the anniversary of the declaration of independence that occurred on May 14, 1948.

To prevent clashes with the Jewish Sabbath, the day is seldom observed on the fifth of Iyar—the second month in the Hebrew calendar—precisely on that date; rather, it usually occurs one or two days prior or subsequent.

The festivities started on the night of April 30th, continuing through May 1st.

This celebration usually involves big gatherings where families prepare meals together at parks and woodland areas.

The nations said to be providing assistance for the fires in Jerusalem, aiding Israel, include:

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 7 PM , Bryony Gooch

Below are all the nations that have allegedly mentioned their intention to send assistance to Israel due to the Jerusalem wildfires:

• Cyprus
• North Macedonia
• Greece
• Croatia
• Azerbaijan
• Ukraine
• Argentina
• France
• Italy
• United Kingdom
• Spain
• Portugal
• Czech Republic
• Sweden
• Romania

What we remain unaware of regarding the Jerusalem wildfires:

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 6:00 PM , Bryony Gooch

• The Fire and Rescue services have stated that they still do not know the precise reason for these wildfires.
• The precise count of individuals apprehended remains unknown. Although Prime Minister Netanyahu indicated that approximately 18 persons were taken into custody for suspected acts of arson, law enforcement sources state that only three people have actually been detained so far.
• The extent of the number of individuals impacted by the wildfires and the precise count of those hurt remains unclear.

In images: Latrun region ravaged by fire

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 5 PM , Bryony Gooch

The Jerusalem city council has stated that Independence Day festivities will proceed according to plans, as reported.

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 4:30 PM , Bryony Gooch

The Jerusalem Municipality plans to proceed with the Independence Day celebrations tonight as originally planned, despite initial cancellations.

The stages will open at 9 pm, with the light rail running until 2 am, as reported by N12 News Channel.

What information do we have regarding the Jerusalem wildfires?

Thursday, May 1st, 2025 at 4 PM , Bryony Gooch

• Wildfires sparked in the outskirts of Jerusalem around midday on Wednesday and have gradually spread across the hills.
• The fire was intensified by scorching, arid weather and exacerbated by powerful gusts that rapidly escalated the blaze consuming the pine woodlands.
• Multiple neighborhoods were temporarily relocated due to safety concerns as the smoke caused hazy gray conditions over Jerusalem. Residents were permitted to come back after evaluations conducted by municipal officials on Thursday.
• The blaze occurred during the nation's Independence Day, leading to the cancellation of numerous festivities as security personnel were redirected to address the emergency.
• The road between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem was shut down temporarily as thick smoke rose above the hills, leading individuals to exit their vehicles and flee on foot.
• Twenty-three individuals, some of whom are children, have received medical attention for smoke inhalation and burns as the wildfire remains active.
• Benjamin Netanyahu announced a state of national emergency and appealed for global backing to secure international assistance.
• The countries of Cyprus, North Macedonia, Greece, Croatia, Italy, the United Kingdom, Spain, Ukraine, and France all provided international assistance, with numerous nations dispatching fire-fighting planes.

The Jewish National Fund director states that the fire is largely under control.

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 3:45 PM , Bryony Gooch

Anat Gold, who leads the central region of Israel for the Jewish National Fund — referred to by its Hebrew abbreviation KKL, an organization involved in managing woodlands, planting trees, and encouraging settlements within the Holy Land — has stated that the blaze is largely under control.

However, she mentioned that employees were finding it difficult to clear out buffer zones and create firebreaks due to these areas catching fire multiple times because of rapidly shifting wind conditions.

Gold said climate change, which has resulted in decreased rainfall in the region, contributed to the fire's ferocity. "Of course when there's a series of drought years, it's a fertile ground for fires," she said.

In images: Pink fire-retardant material rains down over the blazing hills of Jerusalem.

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 3:31 PM , Bryony Gooch

Israel's Magen David Adom sends crews to offer medical assistance to those hurt in wildfires.

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 3:15 PM , Bryony Gooch

By Thursday morning, Israel’s first-aid organization Magen David Adom (MDA) treated 23 individuals for smoke inhalation and burn injuries; among them were two expectant mothers and two babies under one year old. According to reports from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, 13 of these victims required hospitalization.

Substantial efforts made by the IDF and Interior Command to safeguard settlements against wildfires.

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 3:01 PM , Bryony Gooch

The Fire and Rescue Services stated that both the IDF and the Interior Command were putting significant efforts into establishing hotlines with the use of powerful TSA equipment to aid in protecting the settlements from potential fires spreading.

In images: Gardening store destroyed amid wildfire turmoil

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 2:47 PM , Bryony Gooch

WATCH: Israeli wildfires lead to closure of crucial Tel Aviv-Jerusalem highway as smoke darkens the sky

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 2:31 PM , Bryony Gooch

What does Israeli Independence Day represent?

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 2:15 PM , Bryony Gooch

Israeli Independence Day, celebrated as Yom Ha'atzmaut, is a nationwide festival marking the anniversary of the declaration of independence that occurred on May 14, 1948.

To prevent clashes with the Jewish Sabbath, the observance typically does not take place on the fifth of Iyar – which is the second month in the Hebrew calendar – but rather occurs a few days prior or following this date.

The festivities commenced on the night of April 30th, continuing through May 1st.

It generally involves big family gatherings where they barbecue together at parks and woodlands.

Several nations are said to be providing assistance to support Israel in combating the wildfires raging in Jerusalem.

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 2:02 PM , Bryony Gooch

Below is a list of nations that have allegedly expressed their intention to send assistance to Israel due to the Jerusalem wildfires:

• Cyprus
• North Macedonia
• Greece
• Croatia
• Azerbaijan
• Ukraine
• Argentina
• France
• Italy
• United Kingdom
• Spain
• Portugal
• Czech Republic
• Sweden
• Romania

In images: Aerial drone views of the Jerusalem wildfires

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 1:44 PM , Bryony Gooch

The foreign minister has confirmed additional international assistance will be provided to help combat and bring an end to the wildfires.

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 1:33 PM , Bryony Gooch

The foreign minister, Gideon Sa'ar, mentioned that he contacted several international colleagues to secure air support for managing the fires occurring close to Jerusalem.

He stated: "In recent hours, I have conducted multiple telephone conversations with officials from Argentina, France, Italy, the UK, Spain, Portugal, the Czech Republic, Sweden, Croatia, Greece, Cyprus, Azerbaijan, and North Macedonia. My aim was to seek air support for managing the wildfires close to Jerusalem."

I am grateful to all the nations that have already pledged support to combat this fire and to those who are presently considering our requests with a strong willingness to assist.

Israel is blessed to count upon genuine allies who support her during challenging times. We extend our gratitude as well to everyone extending assistance.

Ninety-eight firefighting teams are working intensely with 21 firefighters injured in the incident.

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 1:17 PM , Bryony Gooch

The Fire and Rescue Service reported that 98 firefighting teams are 'actively engaged' in containing the wildfire before wind speeds increase this evening in the Jerusalem Hills region.

According to reports, 21 firefighters sustained minor injuries; however, apart from a damaged firetruck, there was no harm done to either property or lives.

In images: Monks observe as fire crews battle inferno

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 1:02 PM , Bryony Gooch

18 people detained for allegedly starting the fire

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 12:45 PM , Bryony Gooch

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that 18 individuals have been detained for allegedly assisting in starting fires near Jerusalem, as the blaze remains active.

According to The Times of Israel, Netanyahu stated that one of the suspects was apprehended while committing an act of arson.

The fire and rescue services have not yet confirmed the origin of the blaze.

Netanyahu stated that the blaze "is not trivial; it causes damage to both nature and individuals, and currently, we have detained 18 suspects alleged to be responsible for setting fires, with one being apprehended as the incident occurred."

He stated that he was "confident we will succeed in tackling this challenge too. We are taking every possible measure to combat the fire and restore what has been damaged."

The Fire and Rescue commissioner mentioned they are gearing up to receive international firefighting support within the coming hour.

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 12:30 PM , Bryony Gooch

The Israel Fire and Rescue Commissioner, Lieutenant Colonel Eyal Caspi, stated that the service will be integrating aerial firefighting support from international aid within the coming hour.

He stated: "We need to make preparations immediately for integrating international aerial firefighting support upon its arrival in Israel within the next hour."

Working alongside all participants, we are undertaking a large-scale effort to halt the fire before midday. We remain resolute."

The president of the European Commission expresses support for Israel amidst the fires, as international assistance is expected to arrive within the next few hours.

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 12:16 PM , Bryony Gooch

The UK, Italy, and Croatia are providing assistance to help control the wildfires.

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 12:07 PM , Bryony Gooch

A firefighting aircraft from Cyprus is set to arrive within the next hour and will join aerial combat operations managed by the KAF, as stated by the Fire and Rescue Services.

Firefighting aircraft from Italy, Croatia, and the UK are anticipated to reach later today.

'This is the biggest fire Israel has experienced in the last ten years.'

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 12:03 PM , Bryony Gooch

Tal Volvovitch, a representative from Israel’s fire and rescue service, stated that this blaze represents the country’s most substantial fire over the last ten years. According to her, miraculously, the inferno hasn’t caused damage to any residences.

The Israeli Fire and Rescue Authority has advised people to avoid visiting parks or woodlands and to exercise extreme caution when starting barbecues. This warning comes as Israel prepares for its Independence Day on Thursday, an occasion usually celebrated with extensive family gatherings featuring outdoor cooking sessions in parks and forests.

In images: Firefighters battle wildfires ravaging forests beyond Jerusalem

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 11:47 AM , Bryony Gooch

The highway connecting Jerusalem and Tel Aviv has opened.

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 11:31 AM , Bryony Gooch

The principal artery connecting Jerusalem with Tel Aviv reopened on Thursday, following a day when fire approached the thoroughfare, causing motorists to leave their vehicles behind and escape in fear.

Thursday morning revealed large patches of charred land visible from the highway, with streaks of pink flame-retardant powder coating the tops of burnt trees and shrubs. The smoke was thick, and the scent of fire permeated the atmosphere heavily.

WATCH: Israeli forces battle raging wildfires with Jerusalem-Tel Aviv road obstructed

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 11:15 AM , Bryony Gooch

The Israeli military battles raging wildfires with the Jerusalem-Tel Aviv highway obstructed.

President Herzog states during the Independence Day address that wildfires are an aspect of the climate emergency "that cannot be overlooked."

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 11:02 AM , Bryony Gooch

President Isaac Herzog mentioned the continuing wildfires near Jerusalem during an Independence Day event held at his residence.

"This blaze is a result of the climate emergency and should not be overlooked," he stated, according to The Times of Israel It necessitates our preparation for substantial and considerable obstacles and demands that we make choices—along with implementing suitable laws.

The president subsequently expressed gratitude towards the firefighters who had been "endangering their lives for nearly an entire day to rescue people and control the massive blaze."

He stated, "It's impossible to fully rejoice in our independence when our brothers and sisters [held captive in Gaza] remain absent from us. As a nation, Israel yearns for their return and for their liberation."

Herzog added that “even in times of deep disagreements, our courage and our unity are intertwined, dependent on one another. One thing is clear: Even when we have differences of opinion, we must keep the IDF — which belongs to all of us — above and outside all political disputes.”

Fire departments permit individuals to go back to their residences after evacuations.

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 10:28 AM , Bryony Gooch

The Israel Fire and Rescue Services have opted to allow displaced residents to go back home after conducting an evaluation.

A number of nations are offering firefighting aircraft in the evening following Israel’s request for international assistance.

WATCH: IDF battles Israeli wildfire with Jerusalem-Tel Aviv highway closed

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 10:26 AM , Bryony Gooch

In images: Cistercian monks circulate the Latrun Monastery as smoke rises.

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 10:16 AM , Bryony Gooch

Allied nations step up to assist Israel amid raging wildfires.

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 10:01 AM , Bryony Gooch

Italy, Croatia, Spain, France, and Romania have dispatched airplanes to assist with combating the fires following Israel’s request for global support amid what has been termed as their "most extensive" wildfire ever. Additionally, North Macedonia and Cyprus contributed water-bombing aircraft.

The Israeli authorities reported that as of Thursday morning, ten fire-fighting airplanes were operational, with an additional eight expected to join throughout the day.

5,000 acres of terrain have been devastated by the continuing wildfires.

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 9:50 AM , Bryony Gooch

The Keren Kayemet L’Yisrael organization reported that approximately 5,000 acres of land have been devastated because of the continuous blazes near Jerusalem. Among this area, about 3,000 acres were forests.

The organization stated that the extensive Canada Park near Beit Shemesh experienced the most severe impact from the fire.

What caused the wildfire?

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 9:46 AM , Bryony Gooch

Wildfires erupted near Jerusalem sometime after noon on Wednesday.

The fires were intensified by scorching, arid weather and exacerbated by powerful gusts that rapidly escalated the blaze consuming the pine woodland.

The Israeli police reported that they detained an individual who was trying to set a fire in an open area.

The Jerusalem District police apprehended an inhabitant of East Jerusalem for being spotted while trying to ignite a field in the southern area of the city, according to a statement released by the Police Spokesperson’s Unit on Wednesday.

"A search of the suspect's possessions revealed a lighter, cotton wool, and further combustible substances," it stated, mentioning that the suspect is a man in his fifties hailing from Umm Tuba, a Palestinian Arab neighborhood located in East Jerusalem.

Israeli Wildfires Charted: Netanyahu Declares State of Emergency as Record-Breaking Blaze Approaches Jerusalem

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 9:37 AM , Bryony Gooch

Israel is struggling with one of its biggest issues wildfires at all times, leading to a declaration of a national emergency as the unchecked fire comes dangerously near. Jerusalem .

The blaze erupted in the hills west of Jerusalem on Wednesday, starting in the Eshtaol Forest near Mesilat Zion and rapidly spreading due to high temperatures, low humidity and strong winds.

"This might be the biggest fire this nation has ever seen," stated Jerusalem's district fire department commander Shmulik Friedman to journalists on Wednesday afternoon.

Stuti Mishra reports:

Israeli wildfires charted: State of emergency announced as fire approaches Jerusalem

The Israeli Air Force is collaborating with firefighters.

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 9:29 AM , Bryony Gooch

Israel’s air force is helping with fire suppression activities.

On social media, they posted: "The firefighting crews along with the Air Force’s fire trucks are collaborating simultaneously with the 'Shimshon' planes that were active during the night, releasing over 95 fire suppression payloads aiming to put out the flames."

The Intelligence Corps set up a specialized task force to examine the locations of fires and cooperated closely to help identify hotspots and guide firefighting operations.

Setting fires in outdoor spaces is banned throughout the nation.

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 9:16 AM , Bryony Gooch

The fire and rescue teams have banned setting fires in outdoor spaces throughout the nation for the upcoming week due to the ongoing efforts to manage the blaze.

They mentioned that individuals could still ignite barbecues provided they adhered to the safety guidelines.

The authorities cautioned: "Do not put yourself or the emergency responders at risk – stay away from the restricted zones."

A minimum of 22 individuals have received assistance from emergency services because of the wildfires.

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 8:52 AM , Bryony Gooch

The Magen David Adom ambulance service reported that they attended to at least 12 individuals hospitalized on Wednesday for smoke inhalation.

An additional 10 individuals received treatment at the scene, according to the emergency services provider.

155 firefighting crews working at full capacity in the Shfelet Yehuda region.

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 8:37 AM , Bryony Gooch

The Israel Fire and Rescue Services have stated that 155 firefighting units are currently operational "at full capacity across all fire stations in the Shfelet Yehuda region."

They mentioned that the Elad Squadron’s aircraft were circling above key areas of the blaze and close to residential zones to prevent the flames from reaching homes.

Fire and Rescue have prohibited entry into risky forests and parking zones due to wildfires.

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 8:23 AM , Bryony Gooch

Israel’s Fire and Rescue services have limited entry to several forests as the wildfire continues to burn beyond Jerusalem.

They stated that being present in the subsequent zones was "extremely dangerous and completely forbidden":

• Ayalon Canada Park
• Eshtaul Forest
• Ben Shemen
• Kula Forest
• Shoresh Parking Lots
• Steph
• Burma Road
• Neve Ilan
• Martyrs' Forest
• Hulda
• Britannia Park

More than 20 ambulances help evacuate residents from a nursing home as a wildfire continues to rage nearby.

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 8:19 AM , Bryony Gooch

Israel's emergency medical service, Magen David Adom, deployed more than 20 ambulances to help evacuate residents from a nursing home in the Shoresh region located in the Jerusalem Hills.

Mobile intensive care units, along with MDA's specialized evacuation bus tailored for handling multiple patients in critical condition, were deployed for this mission.

The relocation took place at alternate elderly-care facilities in Jerusalem, following the directives set forth by the Ministry of Health, all while safeguarding the well-being of the patients and maintaining the consistency of their healthcare services.

The MDA stated they stay at "heightened readiness" prepared to address any emergencies and offer the required medical assistance.

Netanyahu - "This isn't merely a grassfire; it poses a national threat."

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 8:01 AM , Bryony Gooch

Benjamin Netanyahu posted video clips showing his visit to the fire control center, where he told the firefighting team to utilize every available resource to combat the spreading blaze.

He stated, "The current surge in wildfires poses a risk to lives, communities—and even Jerusalem. This goes beyond being merely an open-field blaze; it represents a national crisis. At the fire control center, I convened a meeting and directed the crews to utilize every available resource."

Pictorial coverage: Firefighters battle the fire close to Latrun, outside Jerusalem

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 7:46 AM , Bryony Gooch

Video: Israel orders evacuation of multiple towns

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 7:30 AM , Stuti Mishra

Video: Flames Turn Sky Ashen in Israel

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 7:18 AM , Stuti Mishra

Concerns grow that flames might spread to Jerusalem as adverse weather conditions impede Israel’s firefighting attempts

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 6:57 AM , Stuti Mishra

Fire Chief Eyal Caspi cautioned during a televised press briefing that "at present, our planes cannot operate because of the prevailing weather conditions... The primary objective remains saving lives."

We seem to be dealing with the biggest fire in Israel in the last ten years.

The combination of high temperatures and powerful gusts has facilitated the rapid expansion of woodland blazes, leading to mandatory evacuations across at least five neighborhoods, according to an official police release.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu cautioned that the wildfires might spread as far as Jerusalem.

"The west wind has the potential to drive the fire swiftly towards the periphery of (Jerusalem) — and possibly into the heart of the city as well,” he stated in a video provided by his office.

Located: Forest Fires Rage Near Jerusalem

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 6:40 AM , Stuti Mishra

Evacuations were ordered for 10 neighborhoods and a hospital as 120 firefighting crews battled the blaze.

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 6:20 AM , Stuti Mishra

According to officials, at least ten neighborhoods in the region have been vacated.

Israel’s Fire and Rescue Services reported approximately 120 teams combating the blaze, along with 12 aerial units including firefighting planes and helicopters.

Over a dozen individuals have been admitted to two distinct medical facilities due to the fire, as reported by both Shamir Medical Center and Kaplan Medical Center.

In the meantime, Hadassah Medical Center located near Jerusalem requested that people refrain from visiting the hospital "except when absolutely essential."

The hospital has started moving out patients who do not require admission, despite getting ready to take in new individuals potentially injured due to the fires.

Israel calls off Independence Day celebrations due to fires

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 6:00 AM , Stuti Mishra

As Israel marked the Memorial Day for fallen soldiers and attack victims before celebrating Independence Day today, the flames grew stronger.

A lot of scheduled activities were getting canceled, among them the formal national ceremony in Jerusalem. This event was slated for Mount Herzl, which is close to the area affected by fires. As an alternative, a recording from the dress rehearsal was going to be aired instead.

Images show dense smoke rising as flames rage alongside the roadway.

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 5:45 AM , Stuti Mishra

Israeli police apprehend a person suspected of starting the fire.

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 5:27 AM , Stuti Mishra

The Israeli police report that they have detained an individual who was trying to set fire in an open area.

“The Jerusalem District police apprehended an inhabitant of East Jerusalem for being caught while trying to torch a field in the south of the city,” stated the Police Spokesperson’s Unit in a press release on Wednesday.

"A search of the suspect's possessions revealed a lighter, cotton wool, and further combustible substances," the report stated, noting that the suspect is a man in his fifties originating from Umm Tuba, a Palestinian Arab district located in East Jerusalem.

Israel announces state of emergency amid raging wildfires close to Jerusalem.

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 4:36 AM , Stuti Mishra

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced a "state of national emergency" due to an ongoing wildfire near Jerusalem. He is seeking international assistance amid evacuation orders and road closures caused by the blaze.

"This could be the biggest fire this nation has ever seen," stated Jerusalem's district fire department commander Shmulik Friedman to journalists on Wednesday afternoon.

The videos revealed cars trapped in the vicinity as fires engulfed the region, with additional footage displaying the blaze advancing towards a Catholic monastery.

Following Israel's request, Ukraine announced it would dispatch an aircraft to aid in battling the wildfires. Additionally, Spain, France, Romania, Croatia, and Italy have pledged to contribute planes for this effort.

Fires erupted following a large forest fire in Israel that resulted in 44 fatalities in 2010.

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 7:49 PM , Tara Cobham

The fires follow a large forest fire that raged for four days in 2010 on northern Israel's Mount Carmel.

The fire resulted in 44 fatalities and obliterated approximately 12,000 acres, largely comprised of forestland.