Rising Gasoline Prices: A Controversial Government Path with Open-Ended Implications for Stability
Caline Fadel
2/20/2026 11:20:00 AM
The developments surrounding fuel price increases since May 2025 have accumulated into a trajectory that is stirring political, legal, and economic controversy, raising questions about decision-making mechanisms within the government and their impact on financial and social stability.
In May 2025, upon the proposal of the Minister of Finance, the government decided to raise the price of liquid fuels despite the expiration of its delegated authority to legislate in customs matters, triggering immediate legal objections. Following an appeal filed before the State Council, a suspension order was issued, forcing the government to reverse what was deemed an unlawful decision.
From that point until February 2026, no sustainable solution was found to finance salary increases for the military and public-sector employees. As social pressures intensified, the Minister of Finance returned to the same approach, proposing a gasoline price increase of 361,000 Lebanese pounds — nearly double the previously suggested rise — while excluding diesel from the measure.
In a notable development, during the parliamentary general session to approve the 2026 budget, a legal provision was added granting the government authority to legislate on customs matters. The amendment was introduced by an MP from the Amal Movement and was interpreted as an attempt to provide legal cover for the increase, particularly after the Finance Minister refused to yield to street pressure and protests that night.
At the most recent Cabinet session, the Finance Minister again proposed the increase. It was approved by ministers aligned with the President of the Republic, the Prime Minister, the Amal Movement, and the Progressive Socialist Party. Ministers from the Lebanese Forces and Minister Paul Morcos objected, while Hezbollah ministers formally recorded their reservations.
These developments raise concerns about direct economic and social repercussions amid fragile living conditions and rising transportation and energy costs, likely fueling further inflation and placing additional burdens on citizens.
Within this complex interplay of government decisions, political objections, and legal challenges, a legitimate question emerges regarding the implications of these choices for governmental stability and constitutional processes — a question whose answers may become clearer in the coming days.
In May 2025, upon the proposal of the Minister of Finance, the government decided to raise the price of liquid fuels despite the expiration of its delegated authority to legislate in customs matters, triggering immediate legal objections. Following an appeal filed before the State Council, a suspension order was issued, forcing the government to reverse what was deemed an unlawful decision.
From that point until February 2026, no sustainable solution was found to finance salary increases for the military and public-sector employees. As social pressures intensified, the Minister of Finance returned to the same approach, proposing a gasoline price increase of 361,000 Lebanese pounds — nearly double the previously suggested rise — while excluding diesel from the measure.
In a notable development, during the parliamentary general session to approve the 2026 budget, a legal provision was added granting the government authority to legislate on customs matters. The amendment was introduced by an MP from the Amal Movement and was interpreted as an attempt to provide legal cover for the increase, particularly after the Finance Minister refused to yield to street pressure and protests that night.
At the most recent Cabinet session, the Finance Minister again proposed the increase. It was approved by ministers aligned with the President of the Republic, the Prime Minister, the Amal Movement, and the Progressive Socialist Party. Ministers from the Lebanese Forces and Minister Paul Morcos objected, while Hezbollah ministers formally recorded their reservations.
These developments raise concerns about direct economic and social repercussions amid fragile living conditions and rising transportation and energy costs, likely fueling further inflation and placing additional burdens on citizens.
Within this complex interplay of government decisions, political objections, and legal challenges, a legitimate question emerges regarding the implications of these choices for governmental stability and constitutional processes — a question whose answers may become clearer in the coming days.