The blaze, which erupted at approximately 11:00 am on Wednesday, prompted the evacuation of multiple communities, closures of major highways, and temporary disruption of train services.
Aerial view of the fire over Eshtaol, April 23, 2025. (credit: FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICE)
By Thursday evening, the Israel Fire and Rescue Brigade declared the wildfire under control.
No injuries or fatalities were reported, although the fire consumed an estimated 10,000 dunams (about 2,470 acres) of natural forest, woodland, and open terrain. Firefighters, police units, army personnel, and volunteers worked in coordination throughout the event.
Jerusalem District Commander Fire Chief Shmuelik Friedman praised the emergency teams for their “courage and determination under difficult conditions.”
“I am proud of our firefighters who stood at the front line with courage and resolve in the face of a wild and unpredictable fire. Thanks to swift action and full cooperation, we were able to halt the fire and regain control,” Friedman said.
He noted that most wildfires are triggered by human actions, urging the public to follow safety protocols during the high-risk summer period.
A strong presence of firefighting and security forces will remain on the ground overnight for final extinguishing efforts.
A situational assessment will be held at dawn to determine further measures. Authorities from Mateh Yehuda Police, KKL-JNF, and the Israel Nature and Parks Authority will remain on alert.
The Fire and Rescue Brigade reiterated its call for public vigilance. “The responsibility is in all of our hands,” the agency said.