Israel Fires: East Jerusalem Man Arrested On Arson Suspicion | What We Know

A 50-year-old man from East Jerusalem was arrested Wednesday, which is Israel’s Memorial Day, on suspicion of attempting to start a wildfire in southern Jerusalem, as authorities continue to investigate whether a series of major brush fires west of the city were deliberately set.

The suspect, a resident of the Umm Tuba neighborhood, was apprehended after police received a tip about suspicious activity. Officers who responded to the scene said the man tried to flee but was caught after a brief pursuit. He was found carrying a lighter, cotton wool, and other flammable materials, according to police. He is currently being questioned at the Oz police station in East Jerusalem.

The arrest came after wildfires raged on the outskirts of Jerusalem, prompting evacuations in multiple areas and forcing the closure of several major roads. Firefighters are battling to control the fast-moving blazes fueled by dry conditions and strong winds.

While some voices on Palestinian social media reportedly encouraged starting additional fires, law enforcement officials stressed Wednesday evening that it was still too early to determine the cause of the fires or establish a definitive link to arson.

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Yair Netanyahu's Son Slams Shin Bet Amid Wildfires

Amid the unfolding investigation, Yair Netanyahu, son of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, reignited controversy online by accusing the Shin Bet domestic security agency of failing to prevent what he characterized as “Arab arson terror attacks.”

Shortly before the Shin Bet confirmed its involvement in the investigation, Yair Netanyahu blamed the agency for the fires in a Telegram post, claiming it “has been taken hostage” and “there is no one to protect the Jewish people,” directly attacking agency chief Ronen Bar.

Bar, who announced his resignation earlier this week following a prolonged legal battle with Prime Minister Netanyahu, has become a central figure in tensions between the agency and the current government. The Shin Bet said it is now assisting police in identifying additional suspects who may be linked to the recent fires.

Meanwhile, the Prime Minister’s Office said Benjamin Netanyahu has been receiving constant updates on the firefighting efforts and is in contact with National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir as well as other top security and emergency officials.

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