Almost exactly one year after a devastating wave of wildfires swept through the Jerusalem hills and surrounding area, charred forests are beginning to turn green, according to a Tuesday report from Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael-Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF).
In 2025, wildfires in Israel destroyed more than 25 square kilometers of forests amid extreme weather conditions, with temperatures reaching 40°C (104°F), humidity dipping below 10%, and strong winds blowing at up to 60 km/h (37.3 mph). Approximately 80% of the affected area is managed by KKL-JNF.
Multiple communities were evacuated, major highways were closed, and train service was disrupted as authorities worked to gain control of the blaze, which took over 30 hours. Due to the “courage and determination under difficult conditions” of the firefighters, no lives were lost in the event, the Fire and Rescue Authority stated at the time.
The most damage was recorded in pine and eucalyptus forests, the KKL-JNF report noted, adding that orchards and low vegetation were less affected. Recently, new tree seedlings have begun to appear where tall forests once stood.
After a year of clearing burned trees and removing hazards from main areas, where people often hike or drive, KKL-JNF’s restoration efforts have now entered their second phase. This includes repairing service roads and secondary trails as local flora and fauna recover naturally and the ecosystem returns to its original state.
“Last year’s fires were among the most severe we’ve experienced, but they also remind us of the need for continued investment in forest rehabilitation,” KKL-JNF chairman Eyal Ostrinkky said.
“We are committed not only to restoring what was damaged, but also to building more resilient forests for the future. Nature is already showing its strength, and we are here to support it and ensure it endures for generations to come.”
Fire and Rescue Authority issues statement banning unsanctioned Lag Ba’omer bonfires
Given the likelihood and history of fires getting out of control in Israel’s warmer months, the Fire and Rescue Authority issued a statement on Monday prohibiting bonfires from May 3 until June 30.
This coincides with the Jewish holiday of Lag Ba’omer, which begins on the 33rd day of the Omer period, marks the end of a period of mourning, and is usually celebrated with bonfires and other festivities. This year, Lag Ba’omer will begin on the evening of May 5.
Bonfires will be permitted in locations approved by municipal authorities, the Nature and Parks Authority, or KKL-JNF. Moreover, the Fire and Rescue Authority is expected to bolster its staffing during this time, deploying more inspectors and volunteers nationwide to support fire prevention and emergency response.
