A massive wildfire sweeping through the outskirts of Jerusalem has triggered a national emergency in Israel, forcing thousands of residents to evacuate and sending thick plumes of smoke over the country’s capital.
The blaze, described by authorities as one of the largest in the nation’s history, erupted on Wednesday-coinciding with Israel’s Memorial Day for fallen soldiers-and has rapidly spread due to dry conditions and strong winds.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that the rapidly advancing flames could reach Jerusalem itself, calling it “a national emergency, not just a local one”. He emphasised the need for more fire engines and firebreaks, saying, “The priority right now is defending Jerusalem.”
Thick smoke billowed above highways as firefighters battled the flames, with the military deployed to assist in evacuation and rescue efforts.
