Overview

• Large wildfires erupted west of Jerusalem on April 30, fueled by extreme heat and strong winds, leading to a national emergency declaration.
• Defense Minister Israel Katz mobilized the army to assist firefighters, while highways were closed and five local communities were evacuated.
• At least 23 people have been treated for minor injuries, with emergency services on high alert and deploying additional resources to affected areas.
• Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the arrival of firefighting planes from Italy and Croatia, while French President Emmanuel Macron offered material support.
• Officials warn that westward winds could push the fires toward Jerusalem's suburbs, posing a significant threat to the city if containment efforts fail.