Israeli fire officials said Thursday that a massive wildfire in the hills west of Jerusalem has been brought under control after more than 30 hours of firefighting operations.
Fire and Rescue Commissioner Eyal Caspi announced Wednesday evening at approximately 6:30 p.m. local time that containment had been achieved following a round-the-clock effort by emergency services.
“The Fire Commissioner has directed that forces begin a gradual withdrawal,” the Fire and Rescue Authority said in a statement. “Firefighters will continue to operate at low intensity but will maintain a strong presence on the ground to prevent any resurgence of flames.” Caspi expressed gratitude to all personnel and agencies involved in what he called a national firefighting effort.
The blaze, which began early Wednesday morning, consumed an estimated 20,000 dunams (nearly 5,000 acres) of forest and open land. Significant damage was reported in Canada Park and other wooded areas. Authorities said 21 firefighters sustained minor injuries.
Key areas affected included Latrun, Burma Road, Eshtaol, Mesilat Zion, Taoz, Canada Park, Sha’ar HaGai, the Forest of the Martyrs, and Shoresh. Drone footage released by police showed extensive damage throughout the affected region.
A special investigative team has been established to examine the cause of the fire. Fire officials said a comprehensive inquiry is underway. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had claimed that 18 individuals were arrested on suspicion of arson, but police later denied the assertion, saying no arrests had been made. Caspi stated the cause remains undetermined and it is unclear whether the fire was set intentionally.
The incident has renewed scrutiny over Israel’s firefighting preparedness. A previously approved plan to purchase four Black Hawk helicopters — capable of carrying four times more water than the aircraft currently in use — was canceled in 2022 by National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir. The plan had been advanced during the Bennett-Lapid government. Upon entering office, Ben Gvir said he would end “the police commissioner’s wastefulness,” alleging that then-Commissioner Kobi Shabtai had ordered the $50 million helicopters partly for his own use.
The investigation into the blaze is ongoing.
First published: 15:42, 05.01.25