Forest fires near Jerusalem force evacuations and closures
West of Jerusalem, forest fires erupted on Wednesday, prompting the evacuation of several nearby towns. The highway to Tel Aviv and the railway were closed. The firefighting efforts include 12 aircraft and 150 fire brigade units.
What do you need to know?
- Where and when did the fires break out? The forest fires ignited on Wednesday, west of Jerusalem, near the town of Eshtaol.
- What actions were taken? Several towns were evacuated, with the highway and railway subsequently closed. The operation involved 12 aircraft and 150 fire brigade units.
- What are the effects of the fires? Twelve people, including two children, sustained minor injuries.
Which towns have been evacuated?
The fires near Jerusalem have forced residents to evacuate from several towns, including Neve Shalom, Bekoa, Taoz, and Nachshon. The flames also pose a threat to the suburbs of Beit Shemesh, which have tens of thousands of residents. Additionally, several nature parks and the Trappist Monastery in Latrun have been closed.
What actions have been taken to combat the fire?
Defence Minister Israel Katz declared a state of emergency and deployed the military to combat the fires. Firefighters from across the country are contributing to the firefighting efforts.
Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar sought assistance from Greece, Cyprus, Croatia, and Italy. Three firefighting planes from Italy and Croatia are already en route to Israel.
What are the further consequences of the fires?
As a result of the fires, the torch-lighting ceremony on Mount Herzl, marking the transition from Memorial Day to Independence Day, was cancelled. In many cities, including Tel Aviv, events dedicated to fallen soldiers and Independence Day were cancelled.
Due to the fires, twelve people, including two children, sustained minor injuries. Nearby hospitals have been placed on alert to assist potential victims and are urging patients with other ailments to seek help at alternative facilities temporarily.
Firefighters are also managing blazes in other parts of Israel, including the north. Due to another fire, the city of Elad, located west of Tel Aviv, was partially evacuated.
Previous significant forest fires around Jerusalem occurred last week, with media reports describing them as the largest in years.
