Israel declares national emergency as massive wildfires rage near Jerusalem
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Jerusalem: Israel is grappling with its worst wildfires in decades as massive blazes spread rapidly in areas surrounding Jerusalem. Responding to the situation Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared a national emergency. The fires, fueled by high temperatures and strong winds, have triggered large-scale evacuations and road closures, with authorities warning that the flames could reach the capital.
According to reports, smoke was seen billowing over major highways near Jerusalem on Wednesday, as firefighters rushed to control the situation. Several individuals have been injured, and hundreds of civilians are believed to be at risk, said Israel’s Magen David Adom (MDA) rescue agency, as reported by The Guardian.
The wildfires have engulfed forested regions west of Jerusalem, with authorities evacuating towns and deploying police personnel along the Jerusalem–Tel Aviv highway. Citizens have been advised to avoid the affected routes and stay away from national parks, many of which have been closed due to the danger.
National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, who visited the affected sites, suggested that arson may be a possible cause behind the fires. He added that an investigation is underway.
Israel has reached out to neighboring countries, including Greece, Bulgaria, and Italy, seeking assistance. Italy and Croatia have reportedly agreed to send three aircraft to support firefighting operations on the ground.
Social media footage shows the fires approaching several illegal Israeli settlements in occupied Palestinian territories. Emergency services are working around the clock to prevent further spread and minimize damage.
With temperatures expected to remain high, authorities continue to monitor the fire’s progress and have not ruled out additional evacuations if conditions worsen.
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Sengottaiyan secures historic 10th victory in Gobichettipalayam assembly constituency
Gobichettipalayam (Tamil Nadu) (PTI): In a historic 10th win, veteran leader K A Sengottaiyan clinched the Gobichettipalayam seat in the 2026 Assembly elections.
Contesting for the first time under actor Vijay’s TVK, the 78-year-old secured approximately 71,380 votes, defeating DMK’s N Nallasivam by a margin of nearly 13,000 votes.
This win marks Sengottaiyan’s 10th consecutive victory in the constituency, cementing his status as an immovable force in the region despite his high-profile exit from the AIADMK in late 2025.
His success was a cornerstone for the TVK, which emerged as a formidable force across the state. Supporters celebrated the win as a testament to Sengottaiyan’s personal influence, which successfully transitioned from his former Dravidian home to the newly formed TVK.
