Massive Forest Fire Near Jerusalem Contained After Hours of Fighting
Firefighters battled a large forest fire in the Haruvit Forest near Beit Shemesh for several hours on Saturday, eventually gaining control of the blaze.
Fifty-one firefighting crews and eight firefighting aircraft were deployed to combat the fire, which consumed approximately 600 dunams (about 150 acres) of brush and vegetation. All hikers in the forest were evacuated. Fire and Rescue Services announced control of the fire shortly after 7:00 PM, though teams remained on site to extinguish remaining hotspots and prevent reignition.
A special investigation team, including police involvement, has been established to determine the cause of the fire, with initial suspicions pointing towards arson.
Haruvit Forest will remain closed to visitors on Sunday due to ongoing firefighting efforts and safety concerns from fallen trees. A standing order prohibiting open fires in open areas remains in effect.
Jerusalem District Fire Commander, Shmulik Friedman, stated that the rapid and robust response, utilizing significant ground and air resources, prevented the fire from spreading to nearby communities and endangering hikers. He urged the public to exercise caution and adhere to fire safety regulations.
The incident occurred as tens of thousands of Israelis visited nature reserves and national parks across the country during the Sukkot holiday.
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