Volunteers of the Etzion-Yehuda Rescue Unit of the Israel Police operated overnight in Har Harat, near the Castel site in the Jerusalem hills, after receiving a report about a man in severe distress deep in the forest. The man, 50 years old and a resident of Jerusalem, was found lying in the thicket, exhausted, fully conscious but suffering from a leg injury.
A paramedic from the unit provided initial treatment including bandaging and stabilization. The man was then carried out from the steep slope in cooperation with a Fire and Rescue team from the Jerusalem station, and was transferred to a Magen David Adom crew that arrived with a 4X4 ambulance. He was evacuated to hospital in light condition.
Etzion-Yehuda Rescue Unit – a vital volunteer force
The incident at Har Harat once again highlights the crucial role of rescue units operating in the Jerusalem hills. These trained volunteers, equipped with medical gear and advanced rescue equipment, specialize in reaching rugged areas where regular forces struggle to act. Their coordination with firefighters and MDA teams often ensures a safe outcome in cases that could easily end in tragedy.
Har Harat and the Castel – forest and history intertwined
Har Harat lies close to the Castel National Site, a historic hill rising to about 790 meters above sea level. Alongside memorials and trenches from Israel’s War of Independence, the area is covered with Mediterranean woodland and narrow trails. The steep slopes and thorny vegetation create real risks for hikers, especially at night. Rescue authorities stress the importance of walking only on marked paths and carrying essential equipment such as a flashlight, water, and a charged phone.
(Instead of hummus – fear in Arab village near Jerusalem)
Safety guidelines for hikers in Har Harat
Experts emphasize that preparation is the key to survival. Basic gear, first aid knowledge, and letting others know about your planned route can make the difference between danger and safety. The rescue near Jerusalem serves as a reminder that nature is both beautiful and challenging – and for anyone hiking alone, even familiar forests can become a trap.
