Massive wildfires have broken out in Israel and may become the largest in the country’s history, according to The Times of Israel.
The blaze began in the Jerusalem Hills area and spread rapidly due to high temperatures and strong winds. A major highway connecting Jerusalem and Tel Aviv has been closed, and evacuation of nearby communities is underway.
More than 160 firefighting crews, 12 specialized aircraft, and military aviation units have been deployed to battle the flames. Dozens of people have reportedly been injured. The exact cause of the fires remains unknown, though some outbreaks are suspected to have been caused by arson.
Amid the ongoing emergency, Israel has requested international assistance. Firefighting aircraft are being sent by Spain, France, Romania, Croatia, and Italy.
