Flames on Independence Day: Israel’s Forests Burn as the Nation Stands Strong

Due to the unprecedented wave of wildfires sweeping through central Israel, Keren Kayemeth L’Israel – the Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF) announced Wednesday a full closure of dozens of forests, campgrounds, and access roads across the country. The move is intended to protect lives and allow firefighters and emergency crews to operate without interference.

List of Forests and Parks Closed to the Public

The following sites will remain closed for now:

• Ayalon-Canada Park
• Ben Shemen Forest
• Eshtaol Forest
• Elad Forest
• Kula Forest
• HaHamisha Forest
• Haruvit Forest
• Forest of the Martyrs (Yaar HaKedoshim)
• Lehi Forest (Gezer area)
• Forest of the Defenders (near Nachshon)
• Hulda Forest
• Tzora Forest
• Har HaRuach
• Mata
• Burma Road
• Sataf
• Neve Ilan
• Shoresh Campgrounds
• HaPoratzim Campground
• Mahal Campground
• Britannia Park
• Adullam Park

 

KKL-JNF officials clarified that entering these areas is dangerous and poses a direct threat to human life. In addition, any presence of hikers or visitors makes it significantly harder for firefighting and rescue teams, who are working around the clock to contain the flames, to carry out their duties safely and effectively.

“A National Emergency”

KKL-JNF Chairwoman Yifat Ovadia-Luski stated:

“This is a national-level emergency. Our forests are burning, our land is on fire — and it’s happening precisely on our Independence Day.
But we are out there, with all our teams, giving everything we’ve got.”

She urged the public:

“Please, do not come to the forests. Let us fight the fire safely and effectively.
We will bring back the green of Israel — together.”