Ben Shemen Fire Contained as Highways 1 and 6 Reopen

Firefighters brought a fast-moving blaze in Ben Shemen Forest under control after it forced closures on Highways 1 and 6 in central Israel. Twenty-one ground crews and four aircraft from the Elad firefighting squadron battled flames that spread rapidly in strong winds. Magen David Adom reported no injuries, while emergency teams remained at the scene. Police reopened both highways in both directions after about 90 minutes, though crews continued final suppression work and authorities warned drivers to avoid the area because of lingering congestion.