Wildfires fueled by extreme heat and strong winds broke out near Jerusalem on Wednesday, prompting evacuations, road closures, and a large-scale emergency response as Israelis marked Memorial Day.
The blaze forced the closure of Route 1 — the main highway between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv — and led to the evacuation of three communities, according to police. Authorities warned more evacuations could follow, with buses deployed in preparation.
TV footage showed flames flanking the highway and people abandoning their vehicles to flee on foot. Twelve people were reportedly treated for smoke inhalation.
In anticipation of such events, Israel’s Fire and Rescue Service had already banned bonfires until May 7 due to the heightened fire risk. The warning came ahead of the country’s 77th Independence Day celebrations, which traditionally include bonfires and barbecues.
Emergency crews, including 120 firefighting teams backed by aircraft and helicopters, were mobilized to battle the blaze. Israel has also requested international assistance from Greece, Bulgaria, Croatia, Italy, and Cyprus.
The military’s Home Front Command and Air Force units were also deployed to support firefighting and evacuation efforts in the Jerusalem Hills.
The wildfires erupted as sirens sounded nationwide at 0800 GMT for Memorial Day, commemorating Israel's fallen soldiers and victims of terror since 1948.
The blaze forced the closure of Route 1 — the main highway between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv — and led to the evacuation of three communities, according to police. Authorities warned more evacuations could follow, with buses deployed in preparation.
TV footage showed flames flanking the highway and people abandoning their vehicles to flee on foot. Twelve people were reportedly treated for smoke inhalation.
Israel is engulfed by devastating wildfires
— NEXTA (@nexta_tv) April 30, 2025
Authorities are evacuating local residents, and the road to Jerusalem has been blocked.
Greece, Croatia, Cyprus, and Italy have already sent assistance. Strong winds are fueling the rapid spread of the fire. pic.twitter.com/rQ6kfFSCq5
In anticipation of such events, Israel’s Fire and Rescue Service had already banned bonfires until May 7 due to the heightened fire risk. The warning came ahead of the country’s 77th Independence Day celebrations, which traditionally include bonfires and barbecues.
Emergency crews, including 120 firefighting teams backed by aircraft and helicopters, were mobilized to battle the blaze. Israel has also requested international assistance from Greece, Bulgaria, Croatia, Italy, and Cyprus.
The military’s Home Front Command and Air Force units were also deployed to support firefighting and evacuation efforts in the Jerusalem Hills.
The wildfires erupted as sirens sounded nationwide at 0800 GMT for Memorial Day, commemorating Israel's fallen soldiers and victims of terror since 1948.
