Fifteen individuals, including children and infants, were rescued in the early hours of November 20, 2025, after a series of suspected arson attacks ignited fires in multiple residential buildings in Beersheba. The Israel Fire and Rescue Authority confirmed that the victims were evacuated from smoke-filled apartments and subsequently received medical attention.
The fires erupted in a total of nine buildings located on various streets, including Aliyah Street, Derech Shimshon Street, and Rabbi Uziel Street. Firefighters faced challenging conditions as they responded to numerous emergency calls and worked to extinguish flames that had spread through building lobbies and electrical cabinets.
Upon arrival, first responders implemented immediate rescue operations, searching for residents trapped inside. They advised those who were unable to escape to seal their doors and windows with wet rags and to stay in interior rooms until help arrived.
In connection with the incident, a 16-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of involvement in the arson attacks. The investigation is ongoing as authorities work to determine the precise cause of the fires.
The swift response from emergency services highlights the potential dangers posed by such incidents. Community members are left shaken by the events, as the fires not only threatened lives but also damaged property across the affected neighborhoods.
As the investigation unfolds, officials are urging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to prevent further incidents.
