Israel declares state of emergency as wildfire rages near Jerusalem Seeks International Help

A massive wildfire sweeping through the Jerusalem Hills has prompted Israel to declare a nationwide state of emergency and appeal for international assistance, as firefighters struggle to contain the rapidly spreading blaze.

The fire, which broke out early on April 30, has forced the closure of Route 1 — the main highway linking Tel Aviv and Jerusalem — in both directions, Caliber.Az reports per Israeli media.

In a sign of the fire’s severity, Israel has requested urgent international assistance. Greece, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Croatia and Italy have responded by pledging to send firefighting aircraft. Preparations are also underway at Ben Gurion Airport to receive the “Supertanker” — a large aerial firefighting aircraft capable of dropping tens of thousands of litres of water or fire retardant in a single sortie.

Dramatic footage captured the urgency of the situation, with drivers abandoning their vehicles as flames closed in on the road. Several communities in the area have been evacuated as a precaution.

Fire and Rescue Services have activated the highest emergency alert, code-named “Red Torch,” triggering a full mobilisation of firefighting teams across the country. More than 100 firefighting units are currently on the ground, supported by aerial teams, battling to bring the blaze under control amid strong winds and dry conditions.

As the country focuses efforts on containment, most Independence Day celebrations have been cancelled, and train services to Jerusalem have been suspended until further notice.

Authorities have urged the public to follow emergency instructions and avoid affected areas. Live updates are ongoing as the situation develops.

By Aghakazim Guliyev