Wildfires continue to burn out of control in the Jerusalem Hills region as of Thursday morning, with 119 firefighting teams still battling the flames. Although highways 1, 38, and 3 have been reopened to traffic, authorities have not yet approved the return of evacuated residents, according to the local council.
At first light, aircraft from the Elad Squadron began flying over critical zones to prevent the fires from advancing toward residential areas. At least six active fire hotspots remain, including Sha’ar Hagai, Mesilat Zion, Yad Hashmona, Neve Ilan, Mevo Horon, and Shoresh, among others.
The firefighting operation includes 11 firefighting planes, three helicopters, and additional reinforcements on the way. Efforts are being concentrated on stopping the fire from reaching Highway 1.
To date, 17 firefighters have been injured, with two requiring hospitalization. Twelve civilians were also treated for fire-related injuries. Shamir and Kaplan Medical Centers received several of the injured, some of whom have already been released.
Israel Requests International Assistance to Contain the Fires
In light of the crisis, Israel has requested international support. Aircraft from Cyprus, Italy, Spain, France, and Romania are expected to arrive. Other countries, including Ukraine and Ecuador, have expressed readiness to assist. Italy and Croatia are also sending additional helicopters.
The Ministry of Tourism, under Minister Haim Katz, has activated a special operations center to coordinate the evacuation and immediate support of displaced residents. Nearly 200 people have been relocated to hotels in Jerusalem. Communities such as Neve Ilan, Shoresh, and Mesilat Zion were evacuated, along with Eitanim Psychiatric Hospital, where 104 patients were transferred.
Hadassah-University Medical Center, which had initially requested the public avoid the facility due to fire risk, announced Thursday morning that it has resumed full operations. Non-hospitalized patients had been evacuated as a precaution.
Suspected Arson Under Investigation: One Suspect Arrested
Simultaneously, security forces have opened an investigation into suspected arson. Police arrested a 50-year-old man in southern Jerusalem after he was spotted trying to ignite vegetation. He was found with flammable materials and a lighter. The investigation is ongoing, with the Shin Bet working alongside police and fire officials to identify incidents believed to be deliberate.
Fire and Rescue Commissioner Eyal Caspi stated that weather conditions are significantly limiting aerial firefighting efforts, as low humidity continues to fuel the blaze. “We are facing a serious situation. We rescued hundreds from a fire trap. The fire will continue through the night,” he said.
The Ministry of Defense issued a public warning regarding potential hazards in cemeteries due to temporary structures erected for Remembrance Day ceremonies and advised the public to avoid them.
Defense Minister Israel Katz contacted IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Herzi Halevi and instructed the military to allocate all necessary resources to support firefighting operations. “We are in a national emergency. Every available asset must be mobilized to save lives and gain control of the fires,” he declared.
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