A massive wildfire swept through the Ben Shemen Forest area in central Eretz Yisrael on Wednesday afternoon, October 28, forcing the evacuation of approximately 400 hikers and prompting authorities to shut down several major highways as firefighters battled rapidly spreading flames.

The blaze broke out near the Ben Shemen interchange and spread through wooded areas from the vicinity of the Hadid cemetery toward Neot Kedumim. Strong winds fueled the fire, sending thick smoke across surrounding roads and creating hazardous conditions for motorists.

Police closed Highway 6 northbound and Route 444 near the Ben Shemen interchange, while traffic on nearby Highway 1 was also disrupted. The closures caused significant congestion as drivers were directed to alternative routes.

Israel Fire and Rescue Services initially deployed 12 firefighting crews and six aircraft to combat the flames. As the situation intensified, Fire and Rescue Commissioner Eyal Caspi ordered a nationwide mobilization, with approximately 50 additional firefighting teams dispatched from districts across the country.

Specialized rescue personnel from the Lahava unit were also sent to assist in locating and evacuating hikers from areas threatened by the advancing fire.

Emergency crews concentrated their efforts on containing the blaze and preventing it from spreading toward nearby residential communities and major transportation routes.

By late Wednesday afternoon, firefighters had succeeded in bringing the fire under control.

Deputy Fire Commissioner Oz Cohen said crews had achieved containment across all sectors after working in difficult terrain conditions. Firefighters remained at the scene to complete extinguishing operations and ensure that the area was safe.

Police subsequently reopened Highway 6 northbound and Route 444 near the Ben Shemen interchange after the immediate danger had subsided.

Authorities continued urging the public to exercise caution and follow fire safety instructions while emergency personnel completed their operations.

The cause of the wildfire was not immediately established.