Israel Declares National Emergency as Wildfires Rage Near Jerusalem, Tel Aviv

Massive wildfires erupted west of Jerusalem, prompting Israel to declare a national emergency, evacuate communities, and seek international assistance, including help from neighboring countries. The fires, intensified by high temperatures and strong winds, have injured at least a dozen people and forced the closure of the main highway between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. Israeli authorities deployed over 120 firefighting teams, supported by military forces and aerial support, to contain the rapidly spreading blazes. Multiple reports, including statements from emergency officials, suggest that the fires may have been intentionally set, with some Israeli officials and security sources treating the incident as a possible terrorist act; several suspects have been arrested. All Independence Day celebrations were canceled to redirect emergency resources, and there are concerns about damage to significant national sites. The situation remains critical as both local and international efforts continue to battle the widespread wildfires.