Jerusalem Wildfires Force Evacuations, Injuries, Arrest

Massive wildfires driven by extreme heat and winds have forced Israel to declare a national emergency, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warning that the flames could reach Jerusalem. At least 23 people, including two pregnant women and two infants, have been treated for injuries, and entire communities have been evacuated as thick smoke shut down the main Tel Aviv-Jerusalem highway. Residents have been seen abandoning vehicles as the fires, intensified by winds up to 60 miles per hour, rapidly advance. The crisis has been compounded by a severe sandstorm in southern Israel, further hampering emergency efforts and prompting the cancellation of Independence Day ceremonies. Israel has requested and received international firefighting assistance, including planes from Italy and Croatia. Authorities are investigating possible arson, with one individual arrested for allegedly attempting to start a fire in southern Jerusalem.