Eric Patrick
The Israelites government has declared a national emergency as the country’s largest wildfires continue to rage near Jerusalem.
Video clips circulating on X (Formerly Twitter) captured the moment firefighters, military personnel, and emergency services were struggling to contain the blazes, which have already caused widespread destruction.
According to reports, the fires began on Tuesday morning near Mesilat Zion, west of Jerusalem, and have spread rapidly due to strong winds, some reaching speeds of up to 100 kilometres per hour.
Commander of the Fire and Rescue Service’s Jerusalem District, Shmulik Friedman in an X post on Thursday, described the situation as dire.
Friedman said, “We are amidst a very large wildfire, maybe the largest there has ever been in this country.
“Regarding our activity, it will continue for a very long time. We are far from having control.”
READ ALSO: Fire Erupts on Lagos Ferry, Four Passengers Injured
Thick smoke has overwhelmed major highways, forcing motorists to abandon their vehicles.
The military has been deployed to assist with firefighting efforts, but authorities have warned that conditions are likely to worsen as winds continue to fuel the flames.
“Our aircraft can’t do anything right now due to the weather conditions… Our goal is to save lives,” said Fire Chief Eyal Caspi.
Magen David Adom, Israel’s emergency rescue service, reported that at least 23 people have been treated for injuries, with hundreds more at risk from the fires.
Despite the ongoing efforts, the cause of the fires remains unknown, and investigations are ongoing. Police have arrested three individuals in connection with the blaze, but it is too early to determine their involvement.