Excerpt from PM Netanyahu's Remarks at the Security Cabinet Meeting Regarding the Massive Carmel Fire

PM Netanyahu's Remarks at the Security Cabinet Meeting Regarding the Massive Carmel Fire

This is extremely serious, and it shows the strength and flexibility of a democracy in responding to a crisis. Perhaps on this Chanukah a miracle occurs and bitter enemies can come closer. By being humane we become more human.

At this stage, four aircraft have arrived from Greece. I would like to thank my friend and colleague, Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou, who responded immediately, and the mobilization here is exceptional, with all the crews and their logistical support.

I would also like to thank Cypriot President Demetris Christofias for dispatching a plane and a helicopter. The response was immediate, the aircraft are here. I would also like to thank UK Prime Minister David Cameron. Two British helicopters from Cyprus are here. All of these forces are helping us. UI would like to thank Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who offered and sent two planes, which are here; we welcome this.

I would like to thank Bulgarian Prime Minister Boyko Borissov for sending 100 firefighters, who are here. I would like to thank Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin who sent a very large Russian plane, perhaps the largest of its kind in the world, which is en route. It will be here this afternoon.

We have also received aid and very generous offers of assistance from Egypt, Azerbaijan, Spain, Croatia, France and Jordan.