Bassam Talis Rejects New Fuel Tax Proposal Amid Public Hardship

Bassam Talis, president of Lebanon’s federations and unions of road transport, rejected what he described as the government’s effort to circumvent public opposition and impose a new tax on fuel under the slogan of environmental protection.

Environmental Goals vs. Livelihood Realities

In a formal statement, Talis affirmed that the road transport federations and unions do not oppose the principle of environmental protection—in fact, they support and advocate for it. However, he stressed that such goals must not be pursued by further deducting from the incomes of citizens who barely manage to secure their daily bread and meet essential living requirements. He posed the rhetorical question: “What environment are we speaking about amid an aggression that burns and destroys everything connected to it?”

Priority on Relief, Not Additional Burdens

Talis emphasized that the immediate priority must be alleviating citizens’ suffering—not imposing new financial burdens on them under headings that do not align with their lived economic reality. He expressed astonishment at the discussion of decisions directly affecting Lebanese livelihoods during undisclosed meetings held inside official premises, away from transparency and without informing the public about the substance of those deliberations.

Lack of Transparency and Socioeconomic Oversight

He characterized the process as aiming to push through new measures without openly informing citizens or accounting for their economic and social repercussions. Talis pointed out that numerous alternative instruments and policies exist to protect the environment without placing additional financial costs on the population. He called on the government to reconsider this direction and explore fair solutions that take into account the severe conditions facing Lebanese citizens.

Warning Against Escalating Public Tension

Talis concluded by urging the authorities to reverse the decision before public frustration intensifies. He confirmed that citizens “can no longer bear further pressure” and underscored the necessity of transparency and dialogue in any decision impacting the lives and livelihoods of the Lebanese people.