Israel battles worst wildfires in history, declares national emergency

More than 150 firefighting teams continue to battle raging wildfires across central Israel in what authorities are calling the worst blaze in the country’s history.

The fires, which erupted on Wednesday near the outskirts of Jerusalem, have devastated large swaths of forest and forced the evacuation of multiple communities. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared a national emergency, citing the “deadly combination” of strong winds and extreme dryness as the cause of the rapidly spreading flames.

“These are fires of a scale we have never seen before,” Netanyahu said during a press briefing late Wednesday night. “We are mobilizing all national resources and have requested international assistance.”

Several towns in the Jerusalem hills region have been evacuated as flames closed in on residential areas. Thick smoke continues to blanket parts of the city, though major roads that were temporarily closed have since been reopened to traffic.

Emergency medical teams from Magen David Adom reported that 23 people have been treated so far, primarily for smoke inhalation and minor burns. No fatalities have been reported, though officials warn that conditions remain hazardous.

In response to the escalating situation, Israel has formally appealed to several countries for aid, including the deployment of firefighting aircraft to help douse the remaining blazes.

As a mark of respect and caution, the government has announced the cancellation of most public events planned for Independence Day. “This is a time for solidarity and resilience,” said President Isaac Herzog. “Our thoughts are with the brave firefighters and families forced from their homes.”

Authorities urge residents in affected areas to follow evacuation orders and safety guidelines as crews continue the round-the-clock fight against the flames.