Jerusalem, May 1 (NationPress) A significant wildfire is currently engulfing Israel, resulting in a national emergency that has mandated the evacuation of thousands and sent thick clouds of smoke over Jerusalem.

Officials have characterized this blaze as one of the most devastating in Israel's history, igniting on Wednesday, which coincides with Israel's Memorial Day honoring fallen soldiers. The fire has rapidly expanded due to strong winds and dry conditions.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has raised alarms, indicating that the swiftly moving fire could potentially reach Jerusalem.

"This is a national emergency, not merely a local issue," he stated.

Stressing the gravity of the situation, Netanyahu declared, "The immediate focus is on safeguarding Jerusalem," and requested additional fire engines alongside the establishment of firebreaks.

Scenes of turmoil emerged as the blaze neared Route 1, the crucial highway connecting Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.

Authorities had to close the road, and dramatic visuals shared on social media depicted drivers abandoning their vehicles and fleeing on foot as flames advanced.

Firefighters, supported by military personnel, are combating the inferno as smoke obscures the sky.

The Israel Defense Forces confirmed that its units are assisting with firefighting and evacuations, and aerial support has been deployed for real-time operational insights.

Israel's emergency medical service, Magen David Adom (MDA), has reported treating 23 individuals so far, including 13 hospitalized for burns and smoke inhalation. The agency cautioned that hundreds more are at risk in what it has termed the country's most severe wildfire in years.

About 120 firefighting teams from across Israel, aided by helicopters and planes, have been dispatched to control the flames. An additional 22 teams are en route to the affected regions.

Five communities have been evacuated, with others remaining on high alert for potential evacuation. A segment of the Jerusalem-Tel Aviv highway remains closed.

MDA indicated that medics are currently treating 12 individuals for mild smoke inhalation, including two infants. The wildfires, fueled by unusually high temperatures of around 35 degrees Celsius and wind gusts up to 70 km/h, continue to challenge containment efforts.

Eyal Caspi, Commissioner of the Fire and Rescue Authority, announced that the national emergency plan has been activated, raising the alert level to its highest.

"Following a situational assessment, firefighting teams are being mobilized from all districts nationwide," he informed the media, according to reports by Xinhua.

Deputy Commander of the Jerusalem District Fire and Rescue Authority, Eyal Cohen, confirmed that Israel has requested international firefighting support from neighboring countries.

According to state-owned Kan TV, nations contacted include Greece, Cyprus, Croatia, and Italy.

As the wildfire continues to rage, Memorial Day ceremonies have been disrupted. The Defense Ministry has canceled the official observance at the Latrun Armoured Corps Memorial and has urged the public to avoid military cemeteries where large crowds were anticipated.

Israel is commemorating Memorial Day for fallen soldiers from sunset on April 29 to nightfall on April 30 this year.

Authorities are closely monitoring the situation as they prepare for the fire's potential impact on Jerusalem, vowing to utilize all available resources to protect lives and property.