Israel Battles Raging Blaze, Independence Day Ceremony Canceled, Communities Evacuated
A massive wildfire sweeping through the hills near Jerusalem on Wednesday forced the evacuation of multiple communities, shut down major highways, and led to the cancellation of Israel’s high-profile Independence Day torch-lighting ceremony. The blaze broke out near Eshtaol and Latrun and quickly spread across five focal points, including Canada Park, Neve Shalom, Mesilat Zion, and Mitzpe Harel.
Emergency responders mobilized 111 firefighting units, supported by 10 firefighting aircraft, two helicopters, and specialized ground vehicles. A command center was set up in Latrun to coordinate the operation. At least nine people were rescued from vehicles trapped in thick smoke, and fire crews worked throughout the day to prevent the flames from reaching nearby towns.
Israelis are evacuated from their cars as a fire closes a major highway near Beit Shemesh, Israel, April 30, 2025. (Telegram)
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The fires coincided with Israel’s Memorial Day, when citizens gather in military cemeteries across the country. One such ceremony in Latrun had to be canceled and evacuated. As conditions worsened, the government took the extraordinary step of canceling the Independence Day torch-lighting ceremony at Mount Herzl, a symbolic national event marking the transition from mourning to celebration.
Transportation and Culture Minister Miri Regev, who oversees the event, made the decision after consulting safety officials and meteorologists. “There is potential for serious damage and risk to human life. My decision is unequivocal—not to take any risk,” she said. A prerecorded version of the ceremony will be aired instead.
The Israel Meteorological Service had warned of strong winds reaching up to 100 kilometers per hour, haze, sandstorms in the south, and an extreme heat wave. The Health Ministry urged the public to stay indoors, avoid exertion, and keep hydrated, especially vulnerable populations.
The police also advised the public to secure loose items, avoid forested areas, and strictly avoid the use of fireworks, which could ignite new fires.
