Jerusalem Wildfires Persist; Residents Return Amid Arson Suspicions

Jerusalem Wildfires Force Evacuations, Arson Suspected

In a dramatic scene west of Jerusalem, extensive wildfires have ravaged the Mateh Yehuda Regional Council area, injuring 21 firefighters and endangering numerous homes. Despite the fierce battle against the flames, residents from nearly twelve evacuated communities have been allowed to return after authorities managed to halt the fires and reopen roads.

The origin of the blaze, particularly in the Latrun area, remains under investigation. However, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hinted at arson as a significant cause, citing ongoing arrests related to the fires.

Netanyahu expressed, “This is not a simple matter. There are natural damages and there are also human injuries. We are currently holding 18 people who are suspected of arson, with one who was caught in the act.” Yet, police clarified that only three of these individuals are directly linked to arson, while others face charges related to incitement, following an online campaign urging Palestinians to ignite more fires.

While some fires were believed to be deliberately set, it is possible that the main fire near Latrun reignited from a previously extinguished fire. The Fire Authority aimed to gain control over the situation by the afternoon as winds were expected to pick up.

The fires erupted amidst hot, dry winds known locally as hamsin or sharav. Fortunately, a significant drop in temperature and light rain offered some relief.

Firefighting efforts involved 93 teams working tirelessly in key areas like Latrun, Burma Road, and Canada Park. Approximately 20,000 dunam (8 square miles) of land, including much of Ayalon-Canada Park, was affected.

The magnitude of the fires demanded a nationwide mobilization of firefighting resources and international assistance. Cyprus was first to respond, sending teams and a helicopter, with firefighting aircraft from Italy, Croatia, Greece, and France expected to follow.

Efforts were bolstered by cooperation with the IDF, which utilized engineering tools to create firebreaks. The Operations Division coordinated the deployment of resources, and advanced visual tools helped map the fire zones.

The Israeli Air Force supported operations with Super Hercules aircraft to dispense fire retardants, and officer cadets helped build fire lanes around local settlements.

Police efficiently reopened roads and cleared vehicles left on Highway 1 as fires spread, ensuring the safety and accessibility of the area for returning residents.

This article was originally published by All Israel News.