Israel declares national emergency as Jerusalem fires continue to rage

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared a 'national emergency' as rapidly spreading fires near Jerusalem could reach the city.

Middle East & Africa

Israel declares national emergency as Jerusalem fires continue to rage

by Shrabani Panda May 1, 2025 0 Comment

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared a ‘national emergency’ as rapidly spreading fires near Jerusalem could reach the city. Numerous people are hospitalized, the majority suffering from burns and smoke inhalation.

This is one of the most brutal fires Israel has seen in its recent history. High temperatures and strong breezes are causing the blazes to spread quickly, prompting hundreds of people to flee to areas that are deemed safe at the moment.

On the eve of Israel’s 77th Independence Day, massive fires rage near Jerusalem, forcing evacuations and closing major highways.

Our firefighters and security forces are working tirelessly to protect lives.

We are grateful for the support of all our friends offering… pic.twitter.com/IlrxltPWYM
— Israel Foreign Ministry (@IsraelMFA) April 30, 2025

The Foreign Ministry of Israel has contacted nearby countries such as Greece, Croatia, Italy, Cyprus and Bulgaria for assistance. Netanyahu’s office has said that three aircraft are going to reach soon from Italy and Croatia to help fight the raging fires.

In a statement on X, French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his complete support for the Israeli people facing the terrible fires. “France is ready to provide material support in the coming hours,” he mentioned.

Pleine solidarité avec le peuple israélien qui fait face à de terribles incendies. Nos pensées vont aux blessés et aux secouristes qui luttent avec courage. La France est prête à apporter un soutien matériel dès les prochaines heures.
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) April 30, 2025