Large fires break out in Jerusalem, Israel requests int’l firefighting assistance
A general view of the flames and smoke rising in the wildfire that broke out in a forested area between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem on April 30, 2025. (AA Photo)
A series of large fires broke out in and around Jerusalem on Wednesday, causing Israel’s firefighting services to raise their alert level to the highest possible level.
According to Hebrew sources, the fires spread rapidly, leading to road closures and prompting a call for international assistance.
The fire has particularly affected the Jerusalem Hills, spreading across large areas. In response, Israeli security forces began preparations to close Routes 1 and 3.
A significant number of firefighting teams have been dispatched to the area, but efforts to control the blaze have been slow and challenging.
The local population is living in fear as the fires continue to spread. Authorities have assured that all available resources are being used to prevent further expansion of the flames.
In response to the scale of the disaster, Israel has requested firefighting aircraft from Cyprus, Greece, Croatia, and Italy to help bring the fires under control.
