Uncertainty surrounds Jerusalem fire: disputed arrest numbers, cause unclear

'Israeli' Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated on Thursday that 18 people have been arrested on suspicion of arson in connection with the wildfires in the Jerusalem hills.

However, 'Israeli' police sources have confirmed only three arrests, according to a report by Ynet.

Netanyahu made the remarks during a speech at the World Bible Quiz for Youth in Jerusalem, quoting from the Book of Psalms and praising the efforts of fire and rescue teams. “We are currently holding 18 people suspected of arson, one person caught red-handed,” he said.

Police officials, however, said they were surprised by the prime minister’s statement, according to Hebrew media Ynet. “We don’t know where he got this from,” a police source told Ynet, confirming that only three individuals are currently in custody.

The wildfires, which began more than a day ago, have triggered a large-scale emergency response. Around 100 fire crews have been deployed to combat the flames, with international assistance beginning to arrive.

Authorities have not yet confirmed the cause of the fires. While one person was reportedly detained for attempting to start a fire in southern Jerusalem, the Fire Authority has not attributed the main blaze to arson. Investigators are continuing to examine affected areas and review surveillance footage.

During his speech, Netanyahu referred to both natural and human-caused disasters, saying, “Our enemies talk about burning the country—and we are protecting it.” The investigation is ongoing, and officials are urging the public to await the Fire Authority’s findings.