Israel Gas Prices Rise to NIS 7.85 Per Liter Despite Tax Freeze

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich signed an order on Wednesday to freeze the "blue" tax on fuel. This measure mitigated an expected price hike, but did not prevent an increase in gasoline prices starting from midnight.

The price per liter of gasoline will rise to 7.85 shekels, up from the current 7.35 shekels, an increase of 50 agorot per liter. Without Smotrich's order, the price was projected to reach 8.35 shekels per liter. The decision to freeze the tax effectively reduced the anticipated increase by 50 agorot per liter.

The tax reduction order is set to remain in effect for 26 days, until the end of the current month. During this period, the new gasoline price of 7.85 shekels per liter will apply.

The "blue" tax is a levy on fuel, and changes to its rate directly impact the final price consumers pay. The decision to freeze it came as gasoline prices were expected to jump significantly. Despite the Finance Ministry's intervention, drivers will still face higher refueling costs.

This price increase is particularly burdensome for individuals who rely on their vehicles for daily work, such as taxi drivers. Some drivers in Nazareth expressed frustration over the rising gasoline prices, describing the cost of living as unbearable.