Multiple wildfires broke out on Wednesday across Israel amid soaring temperatures and fierce winds, forcing evacuations, road closures and the cancellation of the Independence Day torch-lighting ceremony. The most severe blaze ignited in the Eshtaol Forest near Mesilat Zion and Neve Shalom, prompting immediate evacuations. Flames spread rapidly through the parched terrain, intensified by dry weather and gusty conditions.
As of late Wednesday afternoon, firefighters were battling five main blazes in Neve Shalom, the Latrun Interchange, the Latrun hilltop, Moshav Mesilat Zion near Beit Shemesh, as well as Canada Park. Police reportedly arrested or detained three suspects in connection with the fires. The suspects, who were not identified or described in initial media reports, were arrested within several hours of the fires. According to widespread Hebrew news reports, the Israel Security Agency (Shin Bet) joined in the investigation into the fires, suggesting authorities believe the fires were the result of terrorist arson attacks.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said the premier was “continuing to hold updates and assessments” on Wednesday afternoon with National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who oversees the Israel Fire and Rescue Services, and security services. Chief Fire Officer Eyal Caspi, commissioner of the Israel Fire and Rescue Services, told local media on Wednesday afternoon that his organization was still expecting the weather conditions to worsen. “Anyone who has no reason to be in the Beit Shemesh and Jerusalem areas: do not interfere with the firefighters,” the fire chief emphasized. (Read More)
