Haruvit Forest Fire Contained After Burning 150 Acres
A wildfire in Haruvit Forest, south of Route 383, has been contained after burning 150 acres, with arson suspected by Fire and Rescue officials.
Jerusalem, 26 September, 2026 (TPS-IL) — A major wildfire in Haruvit Forest was brought under control Saturday evening after burning approximately 150 acres of woodland and vegetation.
Haruvit Forest, a JNF-KKL planted forest south of Route 383 in the Judean Lowlands, covers roughly 2,000 acres.
Firefighters battled the blaze for hours as strong winds helped spread the flames into the treetops. Eight firefighting aircraft, a surveillance helicopter, ground crews, and JNF-KKL personnel were deployed at the height of the operation.
All visitors were evacuated from the forest, and crews remained at the scene overnight to extinguish remaining hotspots and prevent the fire from reigniting. No damage was reported to nearby communities or facilities.
A special investigation team was established to determine how the fire began. Fire and Rescue officials suspect arson.
Haruvit Forest will remain closed to visitors on Sunday because of ongoing firefighting and safety operations.