The Israeli government, on Thursday, May 1, 2025, declared a national state of emergency as wildfires advanced dangerously toward Jerusalem.
The fires, described as the largest in Israel’s history, erupted Tuesday near Mesilat Zion, west of Jerusalem.
According to reports, the fire is fueled by high winds reaching 100 kilometres per hour and the flames have scorched vast areas and disrupted movement.
Emergency services, firefighters, and the Israeli military are battling the blazes relentlessly, working round the clock to regain control.
The fires produced thick smoke that blanketed major highways, forcing terrified motorists to flee and abandon their vehicles.
Jerusalem District Fire Commander, Shmulik Friedman, said the situation remained critical and far from being contained.
“We are amidst a very large wildfire—possibly the largest this country has seen,” Friedman stated.
Fire Chief Eyal Caspi confirmed aircraft remained grounded due to poor weather conditions, complicating aerial firefighting efforts.
“Our goal is to save lives,” Caspi said, noting the high risk and limited access by air.
At least 23 people have received emergency treatment for injuries linked to the wildfires.
The Israeli Defence Forces have deployed additional personnel to assist overwhelmed civilian responders.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in a televised address, described the fire outbreak as a national emergency.
“This is no longer a local crisis. These fires threaten lives, communities, and even Jerusalem,” he declared.
Defence Minister Israel Katz immediately ordered the mobilisation of all available national forces to battle the infernos.
Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar contacted France, Spain, and the UK to request aerial firefighting support.
Criticism mounted against the Israeli government over alleged neglect of national fire preparedness system.
Dov Ganem, of the Fire and Air Rescue Association, said he had warned about Israel’s fire risks for 20 years.
Former Internal Security Ministry official, Tomer Lotan, revealed past requests to purchase Blackhawk helicopters were rejected.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Police confirmed three individuals have been arrested in connection with the blaze.
Speculations of arson continue, with authorities investigating all possible causes.
Far-right lawmaker Zvi Sukkot called for curfews in Palestinian villages, suggesting possible involvement in the fires.
His remarks have drawn criticism online, as disturbing posts surfaced celebrating the disaster.
Public outcry continues, with social media flooded by angry reactions and calls for accountability.
In a similar development, NewsBand reported that the North Korean authorities have also declared a national state of emergency as strong winds has worsened a wildfire in Daegu, South Korea, forcing authorities to evacuate over 1,200 residents.
The Korea Forest Service confirmed the fire began around 2:00 p.m. local time, on Monday, April 26, 2025.
According to reports, the wildfire spread rapidly, affecting over 50 hectares within two hours.
Dry vegetation and heavy winds fueled the blaze, officials said.
The North Korean emergency teams have quickly moved in to control the situation.
The government has also deployed 26 helicopters and 202 firefighters to combat the fire, according to the report.
A section of the busy Gyeongbu highway was shut to traffic.
Authorities feared smoke and falling debris could endanger motorists.
As of press time, no casualties had been reported.
Residents were seen fleeing their homes with few belongings.
Evacuation orders covered multiple neighborhoods around the affected area.
Local media aired alerts and safety instructions in real-time.
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