Lapid Slams Smotrich Over Fuel Prices, Calls Government Most Expensive Ever

A political spat erupted on social media following a reduction in fuel prices that took effect at midnight. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich released a video from a gas station, showing himself changing the price sign to 7.75 shekels per liter. He declared this a victory against inflation, promising further reductions to ease the burden on Israeli households and businesses.

However, the Finance Minister's announcement was met with sharp criticism from Opposition leader Yair Lapid. Lapid directly addressed Smotrich, stating that on the last day of his government, the price was 6.85 shekels per liter. Lapid challenged Smotrich to make videos when he approaches that price, asserting that Smotrich's government remains the most expensive in the country's history.

The dispute arose from an update to the excise tax on gasoline. The maximum price for a liter of 95-octane unleaded gasoline at self-service stations decreased by 50 agorot from the previous update, reaching 7.75 shekels per liter, including VAT. The additional charge for full service remained unchanged at 26 agorot per liter.