Wildfires have broken out on the outskirts of Jerusalem, Reuters reports. The disaster forced authorities to evacuate several communities and close the main highway between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, News.bg reports.
In response to the growing danger, Israel issued an urgent appeal for international help in containing the flames.
Television footage showed dramatic scenes - fire on the main road 1 and people abandoning their cars, fleeing the oncoming flames. Thick smoke rose over the surrounding hills, making it difficult to see and breathe.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Italy and Croatia were expected to send three firefighting planes, and Israel had also sought support from Greece, Cyprus and Bulgaria.
Israeli media reported that 120 fire and rescue services had been mobilized, including dozens of teams, planes and helicopters. Army units were also involved in the search and rescue efforts.
Three communities have been evacuated so far, with at least 13 people injured. There were no reports of fatalities.
The fires broke out on Memorial Day, leading to the cancellation of a number of ceremonies, including a major state event in Jerusalem planned for Independence Day.