As per reports, a wildfire has forced the closure of the main highway linking Tel Aviv to Jerusalem on Wednesday (30 April). The wildfire erupted on the outskirts of Jerusalem and have led to the evacuation of nearby communities.

• At least 12 individuals have been hospitalized due to smoke inhalation.
• The fire, driven by strong winds and hot, dry weather, has led to the evacuation of residents near the fire zone.
• Assistance is being sought from international partners, with aircraft from Italy, Croatia, and North Macedonia en route.
• The fire coincides with Israel’s Memorial Day, leading to the cancellation of many planned events, including the national ceremony in Jerusalem.
• The wildfires have prompted the Israeli Defense Minister, Israel Katz to declare the situation a national emergency as hundreds of lives are at risk.