Israel Seeks International Help for Jerusalem Wildfires

Wildfires in the Jerusalem hills have led Israel to declare a national emergency, with Defense Minister Israel Katz and IDF Chief Eyal Zamir deploying the military to support overwhelmed firefighters and police. High temperatures and strong winds have accelerated the blazes, resulting in the evacuation of at least five communities and the closure of major roads, including the main Jerusalem-Tel Aviv highway. Hundreds of people remain at risk, with at least sixteen treated for smoke inhalation as emergency medical teams aid residents. The fires disrupted Memorial Day ceremonies and forced some to abandon vehicles as flames neared populated areas. Israel has requested international assistance from Cyprus, Croatia, Italy, and Greece as the cause of the wildfires is still under investigation. National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir and other officials are coordinating efforts to minimize damage and protect civilians.