Israel declares national emergency after worst wildfires in country's history leads to evacuations
A national emergency has been declared in Israel following the worst wildfires in the country's history.
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There are fears strong winds could blow the flames towards the capital, with several towns evacuated.
23 people have been treated mostly for smoke inhalation and burns, the Magen David Adom ambulance service said.
The wildfire broke out in a forested area between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the situation could get worse due to extreme heat and strong winds.
According to Israel’s Arutz Sheva media outlet, 18 people have been detained on suspicion of arson.
Most events celebrating the country's Independence Day have been called off.
Firefighters have closed Highway 1 in Jerusalem to traffic due to heavy smoke as they attempt to contain the blaze.
The public have been urged to stay away from the area, and people have begun abandoning their cars on the road.
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Around 119 fire crews, 10 firefighting planes, and a helicopter have been deployed to fight the flames.
17 firefighters are reported to have been injured, according to Israel’s public broadcaster Kan.
The IDF said its personnel were helping in Jerusalem and other central districts.
The wildfire comes a week after a huge wildfire event in the same area, which consumed about 2,470 acres of natural forest, woodland, and open area.
Eshtaol Forest comprises around 4.5 square miles near Beit Shemesh.
To the east of the forest is the Forest of the Martyrs, planted as a memorial to those who died in the Holocaust and contains six million trees, symbolizing the six million Jews who were killed.
In a social media post, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar has requested aid from other countries.
He said: "Over the past few hours, I held a series of phone calls with my counterparts from Argentina, France, Italy, the UK, Spain, Portugal, the Czech Republic, Sweden, Croatia, Greece, Cyprus, Azerbaijan and North Macedonia, to request aerial assistance in dealing with the wildfires near Jerusalem.
"I thank all those countries that already promised assistance to fight the blaze and to those currently looking into our requests with great will to help.
"Israel is fortunate to have true friends who stand by her in times of need. We also thank all those who are offering help."
