Massive Fire in West Bank Destroys 13 Homes and Forces Evacuation in Givat Gilad

A massive wildfire erupted in the West Bank settlement of Givat Gilad, causing severe destruction including the burning of 13 homes, a garage, and a wood storage facility. The fire broke out near Mitzpe Yishai in the nearby settlement of Kedumim before rapidly spreading to Givat Gilad due to strong winds and harsh weather conditions. The blaze penetrated deep into the residential area, prompting the immediate evacuation of all residents to ensure their safety.

Firefighters from the Samaria district, supported by 45 firefighting and rescue teams from across Israel, eight firefighting aircraft from the Elad Air Squadron, and a Hozai helicopter, battled the flames for hours. The Israel Defense Forces' Samaria Brigade assisted with evacuations, provided first aid to the injured, and supplied water tankers to support firefighting efforts. Two firefighters were injured, one moderately and one lightly, and a local resident fainted and was treated for minor injuries. The fire also destroyed one fire truck and severely damaged an armored firefighting vehicle.

Police forces, including aerial units and drone teams, secured the area and blocked key junctions such as Jit, Kedumim, Yitzhar, and Highway 55 to maintain public safety and keep emergency routes clear. Fire and security officials held a joint situation assessment to coordinate ongoing efforts.

A special investigative team comprising experienced fire investigators from the West Bank Fire and Rescue District, police from the Samaria district, and security personnel from the Central Command and West Bank Division is probing the fire. Authorities suspect deliberate arson motivated by nationalist reasons, which may explain the rapid spread of multiple fire points.

In parallel, firefighters also contained several significant fires in northern Israel near Shamsheet in the Jezreel Valley, Kfar Vradim, and Mount Tabor. The Northern District commander confirmed full containment of these fires but maintained a high state of alert for any new outbreaks or support needs in the West Bank.

The fire in Givat Gilad represents one of the most severe fire disasters in the West Bank in recent years, with extensive property damage and a large-scale emergency response still ongoing.