The head of the Syndicate of Gas Station Owners, George Al-Barakas, confirmed the rejection of the 2% tax, noting that it confiscated the people’s right to benefit from the decline in global oil prices. He wrote via AX: People have been displaced, the country is at war, and businesses have stopped. Imposing taxes now is a disconnect from reality and a stab at purchasing power, and will push the economy toward recession. He said: The value of the stations has evaporated with the increase in fees and operational costs. We'll have a talk soon."