Fire Contained in Jerusalem Hills After 24 Hours, Investigation Underway
After more than 24 hours of firefighting efforts, the massive blaze that engulfed the hills west of Jerusalem has been brought under control, Israel’s Fire and Rescue Service announced Friday. While containment has been achieved, firefighters will continue operating in the area at reduced intensity to prevent flare-ups and ensure no new fires ignite.
The fire, which began early Wednesday and spread rapidly due to high winds and dry conditions, forced mass evacuations, closed highways, and devastated vast swaths of forest and farmland. With the immediate threat now diminished, authorities have launched a formal investigation into the cause of the fire.