The wildfire struck as Israel was observing Memorial Day, just ahead of Independence Day celebrations. Several public events were cancelled, including the official national ceremony. Residents in nearby communities were evacuated as a precaution, and many commuters abandoned their vehicles and fled the area on foot or hitched rides to safety.
1 / 8A fierce wildfire on Wednesday, April 30, forced the closure of the main highway connecting Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, hospitalising at least 12 individuals and covering the Jerusalem skyline in thick smoke. The blaze, driven by high winds and scorching, dry conditions, led to widespread evacuations and disrupted major national events in Israel. (Photo: The Associated Press)
2 / 8Visuals showed vehicles trapped along the highway as flames rapidly spread through the surrounding areas, prompting emergency evacuations of people, including religious communities. (Photo: Reuters)
3 / 8Firefighting efforts included helicopters dropping water and ground teams operating on ATVs. Authorities reported that support was arriving from neighbouring countries, with firefighting aircraft sent by Italy, Croatia, and North Macedonia. (Photo: AP)
4 / 8Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir announced plans to deploy up to 150 firefighting teams to battle the blaze. (Photo: Reuters)
5 / 8The wildfire struck as Israel was observing Memorial Day, just ahead of Independence Day celebrations. Several public events were cancelled, including the official national ceremony at Mount Herzl, which is near the fire zone. (Photo: AP)
6 / 8Emergency services said that most of those taken to hospital were treated for smoke inhalation, while another 10 people received on-site care. (Photo: AP)
7 / 8Residents in nearby communities were evacuated as a precaution, and many commuters abandoned their vehicles and fled the area on foot or hitched rides to safety. (Photo: Reuters)
8 / 8Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the current fire. Meanwhile, the region remains on high alert as emergency teams work tirelessly to contain the flames and ensure public safety. (Photo: AP)
