Described as one of the largest in the nation’s history, the fire has scorched nearly 3,000 acres, triggered mass evacuations, and forced the cancellation of Independence Day events.
Jerusalem, May 1:
Israel is battling what officials have called one of the largest wildfires in its history, with flames raging across the hills surrounding Jerusalem. The fire has forced thousands of residents to evacuate, left at least 13 injured, and prompted a nationwide emergency response.
Footage of the wildfires raging into multiple illegal israeli settlements in occupied Palestine, as the israelis FAIL to control the spreading flames pic.twitter.com/MxDab6iKCv
— Sarah Wilkinson (@swilkinsonbc) April 30, 2025
The wildfires erupted on Israel’s Memorial Day and spread rapidly due to dry conditions and gusty winds reaching up to 100 km/h (62 mph). Authorities have closed Route 1, the main highway between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, as thick smoke engulfed the area, and several motorists were seen abandoning their cars amid the advancing flames.
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BREAKING: A wildfire has spread in a forest near Safed in northern Israel after over 40 rockets were launched by Hezbollah.
— Vivid.🇮🇱 (@VividProwess) June 27, 2024
Where is the outrage? pic.twitter.com/jbFjc1UUZo
“We are far from having control,” said Shmulik Friedman, Commander of the Fire and Rescue Service’s Jerusalem District. “This may be the largest wildfire we’ve ever faced.”
Massive Emergency Response Underway:
- Over 160 firefighting teams have been deployed.
- Dozens of aircraft and helicopters, including two C-130J Super Hercules planes, are releasing fire retardants over the blaze.
- Israel’s military and air force are aiding in rescue and suppression operations.
the wildfires in israel are out of control and spreading.
— sabina🔻 (@thespaceavenue) April 30, 2025
a state of emergency has been declared. pic.twitter.com/uD7u6kHCJw
According to fire officials, nearly 3,000 acres of land have already been destroyed. People have been banned from entering national parks and forests, and several major roads remain closed.
National Impact:
The wildfires have caused the cancellation of Israel’s Independence Day ceremonies, including the primary state event in Jerusalem. The ceremony was pre-recorded and later broadcast to the public.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a stern warning:
“The western winds could easily push the fire into Jerusalem itself.”
Appeal for Global Assistance:
In a desperate move to gain control over the blaze, Israel has formally requested international support. The following countries have responded:
- Ukraine: Sending firefighting aircraft
- Spain, France, Romania, Croatia, and Italy: Committed to dispatching planes and aid teams
This wildfire, coming during a time of national remembrance and celebration, has plunged the nation into crisis mode. Authorities warn that firefighting efforts could take days, depending on weather conditions.
Tags:
Israel wildfires 2025, Jerusalem fire evacuation, Route 1 fire, Netanyahu wildfire response, Independence Day cancelled, global firefighting aid, C-130J Super Hercules Israel, Israel Memorial Day fires, international emergency response, fire and rescue Israel