Wildfires Continue to Rage in Israel for a Second Day
- Publish date: since 5 hours
The firefighting teams in Israel continued to tackle wildfires near Jerusalem for a second day on Thursday, May 1.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu shared that 18 individuals were arrested on suspicion of arson, according to Israel’s Arutz Sheva media outlet.
Earlier today, more than 150 firefighting teams were working to extinguish the wildfire, and 12 aircraft were also working on containing the flames.
The fire broke out on Wednesday, April 30 the along the main Jerusalem-Tel Aviv highway, which led to the complete closure of roads and the evacuation of residents from nearby areas.
Rescue agency Magen David Adom revealed that they treated 23 individuals for smoke inhalation and burns.
According to the Israeli public broadcaster Kan, seventeen firefighters have been injured during their work.
These firefighting crews worked throughout the night, allowing the reopening of roads on Thursday including the Jerusalem-Tel Aviv route, according to the police.
Italy, France, Spain, Romania, and Croatia dispatched firefighting planes upon Israel's request for help, while North Macedonia and Cyprus sent water-dropping aircraft.
By Thursday morning, the 10 aircraft were in action, while eight more were expected to arrive.
Wildfires continue in 11 hotspots near Jerusalem, with seven towns still under evacuation.
The Israeli Prime Minister has declared a national emergency and has warned of the fire spreading to Jerusalem.