Israeli authorities are battling to contain extensive forest fires in northern Israel due to rockets launched by Hezbollah from Lebanon, forcing evacuations of nearby towns amid escalating clashes between Israel and Hezbollah.
According to Israeli media reports on Monday, there have been minor injuries and some homes have caught fire.
The Israeli army has deployed equipment and soldiers to assist in containing the rapidly spreading fires, exacerbated by hot and dry weather, resulting in six reserve soldiers sustaining minor injuries and smoke inhalation, who were then transported to the hospital for treatment.
The army stated, “Forces have gained control over the fire sites, and there is no danger to anyone’s life at this stage.”
Reuters quoted the Israeli Nature and Parks Authority saying that the fires have already spread to hundreds of acres.
The National Fire Service reported its members working late into the night at several locations, including the town of Kiryat Shmona, where they were trying to protect a row of houses.
Police have closed roads and instructed remaining residents in the area to evacuate.
On Sunday, 15 rockets were launched from Lebanon towards areas in northern Israel, all landing in open areas, igniting fires in multiple locations.
