Massive Wildfire Rages Near Jerusalem

Massive Wildfire Rages Near Jerusalem

Fire Breaks Out, Spreads Rapidly

A massive wildfire erupted on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, in the Jerusalem hills, starting in the Eshtaol Forest near Beit Shemesh. Fueled by extreme heat, high winds, and dry conditions, the blaze spread quickly across the Judean Hills.

People are evacuated from a highway during a forest fire near the central Israeli town of Beit Shemesh on April 30, 2025. Photo credit: Ahmad Gharabli/ AFP

It reached areas between Eshtaol and Latrun, threatening communities and infrastructure. The fire, one of the worst in recent years, prompted authorities to declare a national emergency.

This marks the second major wildfire in the region within a week, following a blaze that burned 10,000 dunams (2,470 acres) of forest. Firefighters reported five separate fire fronts, making containment efforts challenging.

Army and International Aid Deployed

Israel’s Fire and Rescue Service mobilized 50 fire crews, 10 firefighting planes, and a helicopter to battle the flames. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) joined the effort, with the Home Front Command, Air Force, and Search and Rescue Brigade assisting in firefighting and evacuations.

Defense Minister Israel Katz called the situation a “national emergency,” ordering troops to support firefighters. Israel requested urgent help from Greece, Croatia, Italy, Cyprus, and Bulgaria.

These countries are expected to send firefighting resources, including aircraft, to aid containment efforts. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar made a public appeal for international assistance as the fires raged.

Evacuations and Infrastructure Impact

The wildfire forced the evacuation of several communities, including Neve Shalom, Beko’a, Ta’oz, Nachshon, and Latrun.

Police closed major highways, including Highway 1, the main route between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, and Highway 3, causing significant traffic disruptions.

Train routes were also shut down, and drivers abandoned cars as flames approached. Seven people were injured, including a 36-year-old man with burns, a 34-year-old woman, and two infants suffering from smoke inhalation. Most injuries were mild, with one person in moderate condition.

The fires disrupted Israel’s Memorial Day, canceling ceremonies and the main Independence Day event in Jerusalem. Economic losses are still being assessed, but damage to forests, infrastructure, and tourism is expected to be significant, especially after last week’s fire caused millions in losses.

No Deaths, but Challenges Persist

No deaths have been reported, a relief amid the chaos. However, the Fire and Rescue Service warns the fires could continue for another day due to persistent hot, dry weather.

The Israel Meteorological Service had flagged “extreme” conditions, noting the region’s vulnerability to wildfires during long, dry summers. Fire Chief Eyal Caspi raised the alert level to the highest, urging the public to avoid affected areas.

Magen David Adom deployed ambulances and response teams to treat injuries and assist evacuations. Authorities are bracing for further challenges as they work to protect lives, homes, and natural reserves.

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