• Rapidly spreading wildfires near Jerusalem have led to a national emergency declaration.
• Defense Minister Israel Katz mobilized troops and indicated support for firefighters.
• High temperatures and strong winds have exacerbated the wildfire situation.
• Communities have been evacuated and roads closed due to safety concerns.
• Arson is suspected as a possible cause, with police making arrests.

Rapidly spreading wildfires near Jerusalem have prompted Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz to declare a situation of "national emergency." Thick plumes of smoke have filled the air, and hundreds of civilians were reported to be at risk from what has been described as the worst brushfires in years, according to Le Monde, Channel News Asia, and Dawn.

The Magen David Adom rescue agency reported that approximately 23 people required treatment for injuries primarily due to smoke inhalation and burns, with several of those hospitalized being vulnerable populations such as pregnant women and infants, according to CBS News, Le Monde, and Channel News Asia.

The fires have forced the closure of major highways, such as the Jerusalem-Tel Aviv route, leading to evacuations of entire communities, with *thousands of residents* displaced in the process. Police have increased deployment in affected areas, urging the public to avoid travel to regions impacted by the fires, as stated by Dawn and CBS News.

The Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, noted that "the western wind can push the fire easily towards the outskirts of Jerusalem — and even into the city itself," emphasizing the urgency of mobilizing additional fire resources, according to CBS News and Channel News Asia. Similarly, National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir hinted at possible arson as a cause, noting that police arrested a suspect caught attempting to ignite a fire in East Jerusalem.

In light of the crisis, Katz instructed emergency crews to prioritize firefighting, cancelling events related to upcoming national celebrations, and reallocating resources to manage the situation effectively. Helicopters and ground support, including troop deployment from the Israeli Defense Forces, are currently engaged in attempts to control the fires, which are threatening built-up areas, as detailed in Le Monde, Channel News Asia, and Dawn.