Israeli Air Force Deploys Hercules Aircraft to Battle Massive Jerusalem Fires

As Israel marked its most solemn and celebratory days Memorial Day and Independence Day thick plumes of smoke darkened the skies over Jerusalem’s hills. In an extraordinary mobilization, the Israeli Air Force deployed its Samson aircraft, known globally as the Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules, to join more than 150 ground teams battling infernos near the capital.

The fires, which began under suspicious circumstances on Wednesday, have torched over 4,700 acres across the Judean Foothills, prompting mass evacuations and injuring nearly 30 people, including 17 firefighters. Among the hardest-hit areas were the Eshtaol Forest and communities near Neve Shalom and Mesilat Zion regions perilously close to Jerusalem.

Facing gusty winds and tinder-dry brush, Israel's elite firefighting units engaged in a desperate struggle to contain the flames. The deployment of the Samson aircraft, recently modified for fire suppression, marked a critical turning point. Each sortie released up to 15,000 liters of water or retardant, helping slow the spread and stabilize key areas.

Israel's Elad aerial squadron, equipped with 14 Air Tractor AT-802Fs, multiple helicopters, and additional aircraft, was heavily engaged. But due to intense wind conditions, many flights were initially grounded, delaying the early response. Only as weather conditions slightly improved could the full aerial arsenal be unleashed.

The IDF confirmed that the 282nd Artillery Brigade, already stationed nearby, has supported efforts on the ground while maintaining combat readiness. Meanwhile, authorities elevated the situation to “Red Torch,” the highest fire-alert level, activating national reserves and requesting international assistance.

Within hours, nations including Spain, France, Croatia, Romania, Italy, and Ukraine pledged firefighting planes. Greece and Cyprus, traditional allies during natural disasters, were also contacted.

With suspicions of arson looming, Israel’s Shin Bet security agency joined the investigation. Calls for fire-based attacks circulated on Arabic social media in the days leading up to the fires, including one post stating: “Set fire to the earth beneath the settlers’ feet.” Police arrested three suspects, including a man from Umm Tuba who was seen attempting to ignite shrubbery near Modi’in.

“This is not just a natural disaster it may be an act of terror,” said National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. “Those responsible must be prosecuted as terrorists. They sought to burn our land and threaten our lives.”

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the fires “a national threat” and personally oversaw emergency coordination. “We are using every tool available military, aerial, and civil to protect our people and our land,” he stated.

The annual Independence Day torch-lighting ceremony at Mount Herzl was canceled for the first time in decades. Transportation Minister Miri Regev, who made the call, cited risks to public safety. Celebrations in Tel Aviv and Haifa were similarly scaled back as fire crews were diverted to emergency duties.

Despite the devastation, the spirit of the Israeli people remains unbroken. Firefighters, soldiers, and volunteers have worked day and night to protect communities, embodying the enduring Israeli ethos: to fight for life, land, and legacy.

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