What it is about
Dozens of Israeli firefighters spent three hours overnight Tuesday battling a large blaze near the Hebrew University and Hadassah Medical Center on Jerusalem’s Mount Scopus. The fire also threatened the Ofarit Military Base. Authorities suspect the fire was deliberately started in a potential arson attack.
Why it matters
This incident underscores the ongoing security threats faced by iconic institutions such as the Hebrew University, a renowned hub for education and innovation, and the Hadassah Medical Center, a critical medical facility in Jerusalem. It also highlights the dedication of Israeli firefighters, police, and soldiers in safeguarding these vital structures.
What they’re saying
The Israel Fire and Rescue Service reported that two fires erupted just before 10 p.m., with strong winds propelling the blaze towards the university, the hospital, and the military base. “The fire started on the southern slopes of the village of Issawiya, apparently due to the throwing of Molotov Cocktails, and progressed at great speed due to the winds,” the service explained. About 25 firefighter crews, supported by police and soldiers, were dispatched to manage the situation.
What happened next
Despite the intensity of the fire, authorities confirmed there were no reports of damage to buildings or injuries. Throughout the incident, there was no immediate danger to the university, the military base, or nearby residential areas. Law enforcement has opened an investigation into the suspected arson.
The big picture
This blaze follows a pattern of recent aggressive actions allegedly coming from the nearby Arab neighborhood of Issawiya, where earlier this month, firebombs were thrown at the Ofarit Base. On June 2nd, a major fire broke out near the Israel Museum in Jerusalem, leading to property damage and the evacuation of the museum.
With increasing occurrences of suspected arson, the incident calls for heightened vigilance and collaborative efforts to protect vulnerable yet essential Israeli infrastructures and communities.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.