Greece and Cyprus Refuse to Send Firefighting Planes as Massive Blaze Rages in Israel

Occupied Jerusalem (Quds News Network)- Greece and Cyprus have refused to send firefighting planes to Israel to help fight a major wildfire spreading out of control in the hills near occupied Jerusalem, reported Israeli Maariv.

The Israeli government had requested help from several countries, including Greece and Cyprus. But both countries announced they will not assist. The Israeli newspaper reported that both countries “are dealing with large fires of their own”.

 The wildfire in the Jerusalem hills continues to spread rapidly. Strong winds have made the situation worse. The flames reached a major highway, and firefighting planes flew overhead in a desperate attempt to contain the blaze. Israeli media said some fire crews became trapped west of the occupied city as strong winds fueled the flames.

Israeli authorities hoped foreign countries would step in. But Greece and Cyprus were unable or unwilling to send help. Croatia was the first to respond. It will send Canadair CL-415 planes by nightfall.

These planes are known as “Super Scoopers.” They can collect water directly from lakes or the sea and release it over the flames. Croatia also uses smaller aircraft, like the Air Tractor AT-802, which can operate in hard-to-reach areas.

Israel currently has very few firefighting planes. Only one large military aircraft, known as “Shimson,” is equipped to handle massive fires. Despite warnings and annual wildfires, Israel did not prepare itself for such a recurrent incident. Instead, it has been directing spending on the military and settlements across Palestine.