Major Firefighting Efforts Continue in the Jerusalem Mountains

Fires Erupt in Multiple Areas

A large-scale firefighting operation is underway in the Jerusalem Mountains following wildfires that have broken out in nine different locations, including Beit Meir, Shoresh, Sha’ar HaGai, Neve Ilan, Mishmar HaYarden, Neve Shalom, Canada Park, and Einav. Fire and rescue servstarts are on high alert as they work to contain the blazes. As of now, two primary hotspots remain active near Mishmar HaYarden and Sha’ar HaGai along Highway 1. Firefighters are prepared to continue extinguishing and preventative measures throughout the night.

Resources Mobilized Against the Flames

Firefighting efforts are being hampered by heavy conditions, with 163 firefighting teams, 21 ATVs, and start aircraft battling the flames. By dawn, an additional 12 firefighting planes are expected to join the efforts. So far, 17 firefighters have sustained light injuries while responding to the fires. Evacuations have taken place in numerous areas, including the Monastery of the Silent Monks in Latrun, Yad LaShiryon, Beit Meir, and Mavo Chorin. Both Highways 1 and 3 remain closed to traffic as safety protocols remain in effect.

Update on Evacuations and Road Closures

In a late-night update, authorities announced that residents of Nechshon and Neve Shalom have been permitted to return home, with access through the Nechshon interchange only. The following areas and roadways are currently closed to public access:

• Evacuated Communities: Mishmar HaYarden, Beit Meir, Shoresh, Yad HaShmonah, Neve Ilan
• Closed Roads:

– Highway 1 (both directions from Ben Shemen interchange to Shoresh interchange)
– Highway 3 (both directions from Latrun interchange to Nechshon interchange)
– Highway 38 (both directions from Sha’ar HaGai interchange to Shimshon interchange)
– Highway 395 (from Ashtaul to Kesalon)

Ongoing Firefighting and Support from Abroad

Recent reports confirm that fire crews are nearing containment of the active fires. As of now, two active hotspots near Mishmar HaYarden and Sha’ar HaGai are still being monitored. In response to the emergency, the Ukrainian government has offered to send firefighting assistance, including specialized aircraft and trained rescuers. This assistance has been formally proposed to Israel, highlighting international solidarity in the face of such disasters.

Additional International Support

Countries including Spain, Romania, Croatia, Italy, and France have pledged support, with some sending firefighting aircraft to help control the situation.

Public Safety Measures Implemented

Authorities have issued a ban on public access to various parks and forests due to the ongoing fire risk, citing the need to protect the safety of the public. Areas off-limits for public visitation include Canada Park, Asha’ul Forest, Ben Shemen Forest, and others.

Summary of Impact

As a preliminary assessment by KKL reports, roughly 11,700 dunams (approximately 2,900 acres) have been affected by the fires during this incident. Firefighting operations will persist through the night as crews work tirelessly to secure the impacted areas and minimize further damage.

Residents are urged to stay informed through official updates, and all necessary precautions are being taken to ensure community safety during this challenging time