Over 20 Injured in Jerusalem Nursing Home Fire, Two Critical

A fire broke out overnight between Wednesday and Thursday at the "Meshenot Vatikim" nursing home in Bnei Brak, leaving 24 people injured. According to Magen David Adom (MDA), two individuals are in serious condition, four are in moderate condition, and 18 sustained light injuries. Approximately 40 residents were evacuated from the building.

The two seriously injured are a 65-year-old man and an approximately 80-year-old man, both suffering from second-degree burns. They were sedated and ventilated before being transported to the hospital. Among the moderately injured are a 75-year-old woman, two men aged 50 and 80, and a 73-year-old woman. Other casualties suffered from smoke inhalation and were taken to various hospitals, including Sheba Tel HaShomer, Beilinson, Ichilov, and Mayanei Hayeshua.

MDA paramedics described the scene as "very difficult," noting the large number of casualties. Firefighters from Bnei Brak and Ramat Gan stations responded rapidly, extinguishing the blaze and conducting searches for trapped residents. Several residents were found trapped in the burning apartment and were rescued by firefighters and handed over to medical personnel. Simultaneously, dozens of other residents were evacuated.

The fire reportedly started in an apartment on the first floor of the eight-story building. A fire investigator has been called to determine the cause of the blaze.