ALBAWABA- Massive wildfires have broken out west of Jerusalem, prompting widespread evacuations, highway closures, and emergency alerts across central Israel.
Fueled by extreme heat and strong winds, the fires have raged uncontrollably since noon, especially near Beit Shemesh and the Eshtaol Forest.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in a video posted on his X account, said: "I’ve arrived at the Fire Management Department to personally thank the brave teams working tirelessly to extinguish the fire. Our top priority is to prevent any loss of life. I urge the public to stay away from the affected areas and follow safety instructions."
הגעתי לחפ״ק ניהול השריפה וביקשתי להודות לצוותים הפועלים לכיבוי האש.
— Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) April 23, 2025
המשימה העליונה שלנו היא למנוע אובדן חיים. אני מבקש מהציבור לא להתקרב לאש. pic.twitter.com/ozjgmOtZw2
Israeli media report that firefighters are struggling to contain the flames, with at least 21 firefighting crews and two aircraft deployed in the area.
Despite their efforts, fires continue to burn near Highway 1 — the main artery connecting Tel Aviv and Jerusalem — as well as Route 6 and Route 38 near Bab Al-Wadi, all of which have been shut down due to the escalating danger.
Evacuations are underway in multiple communities west of Jerusalem, and the Israeli military has begun removing settlers from threatened areas. Trains have also been halted as the fire continues to encroach on homes and critical infrastructure.
