Wed Apr 30 16:57:14 UTC 2025: ## Wildfires Force Evacuations Near Jerusalem, Israel Seeks International Aid
**Jerusalem, April 30, 2025** – Wildfires raging on the outskirts of Jerusalem forced the evacuation of several communities and the closure of a major highway on Wednesday, April 30th, prompting Israel to seek international assistance. Footage showed intense flames spreading along the Jerusalem-Tel Aviv highway, with civilians fleeing the area as smoke filled the sky.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Italy and Croatia are sending firefighting aircraft to aid in the effort, and requests for assistance have also been made to Greece, Cyprus, and Bulgaria. Over 120 fire and rescue teams, along with aircraft and helicopters, are battling the blaze. The military is also assisting in search and rescue operations.
At least 13 injuries have been reported, but there are no fatalities. Three communities were evacuated as a precaution. The fires broke out on Israel’s Memorial Day for fallen soldiers, leading to the cancellation of several Independence Day eve ceremonies, including the main state event in Jerusalem.
First Piper 