Overview
- A fast-moving wildfire that began near Kedumim on Saturday spread into the Havat Gilad settlement, forcing a full evacuation and driving flames into residential rows.
- Fire and Rescue mobilized 45 crews plus a reconnaissance helicopter and eight aircraft to contain the blaze, and two responding firefighters were treated for injuries.
- Reports of destruction vary by source but put the losses at roughly 13–15 homes plus damaged businesses and vehicles, including the Tzameret lumber yard and the home of Yael Shevach.
- Police opened a special investigation, the IDF says it holds surveillance showing a vehicle at the scene, investigators recovered a cigarette butt at the origin, and authorities reported two arrests on suspicion of involvement.
- A large relief effort raised about NIS 5.64 million from more than 22,000 donors and community leaders say temporary shelter and rebuilding plans are underway against a backdrop of long-standing local tensions that make the probe politically sensitive.