Smotrich aims to cut Israel’s record gas prices, but his plan may be deemed illegal

Gasoline prices in Israel have reached a record high of NIS 8.25 per liter, placing significant economic strain on citizens amid ongoing regional tensions with Iran. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich is attempting to mitigate these costs by implementing a fuel tax cut. However, reports suggest that the Attorney General may deem the move illegal due to its proximity to the upcoming election. Under Israeli election law, significant tax adjustments during the pre-election period are restricted to prevent the use of economic policy for political campaigning. It remains unclear whether the government will find an alternative legal pathway to implement the price reduction.