Israeli tourist arrested in Greece over wildfire sparked by barbecue

Greek authorities have arrested a 35-year-old Israeli tourist on the island of Crete on suspicion of causing a brush and forest fire. According to reports, the suspect allegedly ignored explicit warnings and written instructions from the owner of his rented villa, which strictly prohibited the use of barbecues due to high fire risks. The blaze began on Friday evening near the village of Sellia in the Rethymno region. Findings from the Greek Fire Service's arson investigation unit indicate that sparks from the grill, carried by strong winds, ignited dry vegetation and caused the fire to spread rapidly. More than 60 firefighters, supported by helicopters and water tankers, were deployed to the scene, and precautionary evacuations were ordered for the communities of Fotinari and Souda. The fire was brought under control after approximately four hours. The suspect is expected to appear before a judge in Rethymno for a hearing regarding his detention.