24 injured, thousands forced to evacuate as massive forest fires rage across Israel

May 1, 2025 by News Desk

At least 24 people have been injured due to smoke inhalation as large-scale forest fires swept through parts of Israel, forcing evacuations and road closures amid scorching temperatures.

According to Israeli media, the fires prompted authorities to evacuate residents from Neveh Shalom, Beko’a, Ta’oz, and Mesilat Tzion.

Over 100 firefighters and 11 aircraft have been deployed to combat the blaze, which has now surpassed the scale of the catastrophic Carmel forest fires of 2010, Channel 12 reported.

The blaze, which erupted in the Estahol Forest between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, led to the closure of major highways and the suspension of train services between Ashdod and Ashkelon.

Jerusalem’s Assaf Harofeh Hospital confirmed treating at least 10 patients, while the total number of injured has climbed to 24, according to reports from Yedioth Ahronoth and KAN.

Due to the severity of the fires, Israel’s Fire and Rescue Service has raised its alert level to the highest and has requested international assistance from Greece, Croatia, Italy, and the Greek Cypriot administration.

The Israeli Air Force has also prepared its bases to receive foreign firefighting aircraft if needed.

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant declared a national emergency on Wednesday, deploying soldiers to support firefighting efforts in the hilly terrain around Jerusalem.

All Independence Day celebrations have been canceled in light of the crisis.

Jerusalem District Fire and Rescue Commander Shmulik Friedman described the situation as potentially the largest wildfire in the country’s history.

Transport Minister Miri Regev has also directed the use of diesel-powered trains in the event of a power outage caused by the fires.

The situation remains critical as emergency teams battle to contain the flames and protect communities.