Wildfires reach Israeli army bases, settlers flee their homes

Massive wildfires engulfed occupied Jerusalem on Wednesday, with flames reaching Israeli army bases and forcing hundreds of settlers to flee their illegal settlements for safety. Travelers on a major highway abandoned their vehicles and ran for cover as the blaze intensified.

Chaotic scenes of panic unfolded in various Israeli settlements, where settlers were seen scrambling onto roads, clutching their belongings as they searched for shelter.

The fire reportedly began in the Jerusalem hills, a mountainous area near the Israeli capital, and rapidly spread due to dry weather conditions and a dust storm.

A video circulating online showed the Israeli occupation army evacuating its bases as the fire raged nearby.

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In response to the crisis, Israel requested international assistance. Greece, Croatia, Bulgaria, and Italy have pledged support in efforts to control the blaze.

As dramatic footage of the panic in Israeli settlements went viral on social media, many were quick to draw comparisons with the plight of Palestinians, who have endured over a year of relentless suffering due to Israel's ongoing military offensive.

Thousands of Palestinians have been forced to flee their homes. Many were killed inside their residences, while others who sought refuge in camps were either bombed or repeatedly displaced by Israeli forces.

The wildfire coincided with Israel’s Memorial Day for dead soldiers and its Independence Day. Authorities in Tel Aviv have since canceled all ceremonies and related events.

While the full scale of destruction remains uncertain, Reuters has reported that at least 13 people have been injured in the blaze.