Massive Wildfire Engulfs Israel, State of Emergency Declared

A devastating wildfire is raging across Israel, prompting the government to declare a state of emergency. The fire has spread through the Eshtaol forest area west of the capital, Jerusalem, forcing the evacuation of several communities.

According to a report by The Times of Israel on Wednesday (April 30), the blaze is one of the worst the country has seen in recent years. Israel’s emergency response organization, Magen David Adom (MDA), reported that hundreds of civilians are at risk due to the severity of the fire. In response, Minister of National Security Itamar Ben Gvir has ordered military forces to assist firefighters.

So far, MDA has treated 22 people, 12 of whom have been hospitalized, mostly for smoke inhalation. The emergency alert level has been raised to its highest status.

In a statement, National Security Minister Katz said, “We are facing a national emergency and must mobilize all available forces to save lives and contain the fire.

The wildfire was reportedly sparked by extreme heatwaves and strong winds, making containment efforts even more difficult. Evacuations have occurred in communities such as Neve Shalom, Beqoa, Ta’oz, and Nataf. Authorities have also warned that residents of Mesilat Zion may need to evacuate next, and police have been instructed to remain on high alert.

Due to the fire, Route 1 — the main highway between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv — has been shut down, along with several other routes, including 3, 65, 70, and 85. Train services between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv have also been suspended.

Firefighting efforts are underway with 63 firefighting teams and 11 aircraft deployed to battle the flames.