Wind-fueled fires in Israel are tearing through brush outside Jerusalem, prompting the evacuation of residents and leaving more than a dozen people hospitalized.

The fires interrupted memorial day ceremonies, and Israel’s top firefighter called the blazes “one of the toughest events” he has faced.

Israel has declared a national emergency as massive wildfires rage near Jerusalem, forcing evacuations, shutting down major highways, and injuring over 20 people. PM Netanyahu warned that the flames could reach the city itself and emphasised the urgency of controlling the fire.