Due to the heat: A total ban on lighting fires throughout the country until the end of August

The Israel Fire and Rescue Authority has issued a special announcement ahead of the upcoming weekend. Commissioner Eyal Caspi has signed an order prohibiting the lighting of fires by virtue of his authority under Regulation 8 of the National Fire and Rescue Authority regulations. The decision was made against the backdrop of a heavy heatwave expected to hit the region starting Friday, which significantly increases the risk of massive fires breaking out in open areas.

The order came into effect on Thursday, July 23, 2026, and is expected to remain in force until midnight on Monday, August 31, 2026. The ban applies to all open areas throughout Israel, including nature reserves and national parks. Furthermore, the performance of technical works that create combustion or open fire will be permitted only subject to strict compliance with the special instructions set forth in the order.

Alongside the sweeping ban, the Fire and Rescue Authority clarifies that lighting a fire inside a designated facility for preparing food, such as a grill, remains permitted for the general public. However, the public is urged to demonstrate great civic responsibility, to heed the instructions of security and rescue personnel, and to refrain from any negligent action that could lead to a disaster in nature. In the event of a suspected fire, one should immediately dial the 102 emergency hotline.