Breaking

A large-scale forest and brush fire broke out in the Ben Shemen forest area on Wednesday, spreading rapidly towards highways 444, 1 and 6. According to fire and rescue services, 12 firefighting crews are currently operating at the scene, with approximately 50 additional teams en route and four aerial firefighting aircraft deployed from the air.

Following the fire, police announced the closure of Highway 444 in both directions near the Ben Shemen interchange and Highway 6 northbound near the same interchange. The rapid spread of the fire has been attributed to windy conditions in the area.

The public is urged to avoid the area and use alternative routes. The fire continues to be actively fought by multiple emergency services operating both on the ground and from the air.

Sources: Ynet, Walla, www.israelhayom.co.il, Times of Israel