Israel is facing an emergency situation due to large fires that have engulfed several parts of the country, especially near Jerusalem.
According to authorities, 155 firefighting teams are engaged on the ground, supported by aircraft and helicopters that are helping to extinguish the flames. The fires are still out of control, although operations are continuing without interruption.
The fires have forced the evacuation of at least three communities and the closure of the main highway between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. So far, 17 firefighters have been injured, two of whom have been hospitalized. Several civilians have been treated for breathing problems due to smoke inhalation.
Israeli authorities are investigating the possibility that the fires were deliberately set, after Hamas reportedly called on Arab youth to "burn everything they can" as part of a "popular resistance." This has raised major security concerns and prompted the government to declare a national state of emergency.
Faced with the scale of the situation, Israel has requested assistance from other countries. Italy, Croatia, Greece, Cyprus and Bulgaria have offered support with firefighting aircraft.
The fires occurred during the Day of Remembrance for Israel's fallen soldiers, forcing the cancellation of some of the memorial ceremonies, including the official ones in Jerusalem. (A2 Televizion)
A2 CNN Livestream
MUND TE LEXONI GJITHASHTU
