Photo: Getty images
Israel is battling large-scale wildfires that broke out on Wednesday near the highway between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. Due to the rapid spread of the fire, police closed major highways and evacuated thousands of residents. On Thursday, some roads have been reopened, but the threat remains high, AFP reports.
According to the rescuers, 193 fire crews and 12 aircraft are involved in extinguishing the fire, as well as the military, who are forming protective lines to prevent the flames from spreading. At least 23 people have been injured, including two pregnant women and two babies. Also, 17 firefighters were injured, according to Israeli television Kan.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared a state of emergency, saying the flames could reach Jerusalem. The army continues to deploy equipment in the central regions of the country, in particular along the strategic route between Latrun and Bet Shemesh, where some of the most powerful fires have been recorded.
The fire is spreading rapidly due to the heat and strong winds. The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced that it expects international assistance: planes have already departed from France, Romania, Italy, Croatia and Spain to extinguish the fires.
Israeli authorities cancelled a number of Independence Day events to avoid new tragedies and ensure maximum mobilisation of forces.
