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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China says will continue to stand by Pak in upholding its ‘sovereignty, territorial integrity’
Islamabad, May 10 (PTI): China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Saturday said that his country would continue to stand by Pakistan in upholding its “sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national independence”.
The Chinese foreign minister made these comments during a telephonic conversation with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, according to a statement by the Foreign Office.
During the conversation, Dar briefed Wang Yi on the evolving regional situation.
Wang Yi acknowledged Pakistan’s “restraint and appreciated its responsible approach under challenging circumstances”.
“He reaffirmed that China, as Pakistan’s All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partner and iron-clad friend, will continue to stand firmly by Pakistan in upholding its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national independence,” the Foreign Office said.
Separately, Dar also spoke with UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed, who welcomed the ceasefire agreement between Pakistan and India.
Dar also spoke with Foreign Minister of Türkiye Hakan Fidan and apprised him of the current situation in the region.
India and Pakistan have agreed to a “full and immediate” ceasefire, President Donald Trump announced on Saturday, claiming that it was a result of the US-mediated talks.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio termed it a US-brokered ceasefire while commending Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Shehbaz Sharif on “their wisdom, prudence, and statesmanship in choosing the path of peace”.
The ceasefire came hours after India and Pakistan attacked each other’s military facilities, dangerously escalating the ongoing conflict.
