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3w ago

Israel Contains Wildfires Near Jerusalem, Reopens Major Roads

Authorities have largely controlled the largest wildfires in a decade, allowing displaced residents to return as investigations into suspected arson continue.

Image
Cows graze as forest fire is burning near Latrun, Israel, Wednesday, April 30, 2025. (AP Photo/Ohad Zwigenberg)
An Israeli firefighter battles a wildfire near Latrun, Israel, outside of Jerusalem, Thursday, May 1, 2025. (AP Photo/Ohad Zwigenberg)
An Israeli firefighter battles a wildfire near Latrun, Israel, outside of Jerusalem, Thursday, May 1, 2025. (AP Photo/Ohad Zwigenberg)

Overview

  • Israeli emergency teams have contained wildfires west of Jerusalem, with major routes, including the Jerusalem–Tel Aviv highway, reopened to traffic.
  • The fires, fueled by extreme heat and strong winds, prompted evacuations of multiple communities and the treatment of 23 people for smoke-related injuries.
  • Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared the situation a national emergency, deploying military and emergency units to assist in firefighting and rescue efforts.
  • International firefighting aircraft from countries including Italy, Croatia, and Spain joined the operation, bolstering containment efforts.
  • Authorities are investigating potential arson, with one suspect detained, while residents begin returning to their homes as emergency teams address lingering hotspots.