Bezalel Smotrich says act will significantly reduce consumer costs ahead of coming Passover holiday; physicians union says government 'ignoring voice of reason'

Shas chief Deri welcomes move as fulfillment of election promise; measure, which was motivated by health concerns, has been slammed by ultra-Orthodox as targeting them

Women's lobby group within Shas party sends letter to Deri asking him to intervene to keep surcharge in place; tax could reportedly only be repealed on diet beverages

Diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman discusses the premier and international critics; health writer Nathan Jeffay looks at COVID boosters, a soft drink backlash, and immunotherapy

Knesset approves committee decree, which takes effect immediately

With just 200 or so machines available countrywide to collect beverage containers and issue refunds, Environment Ministry faces bumpy start of big bottle regulations December 1

Company accused of using its weight to try and force competitors out of market, including banning display of rival products in refrigerators provided to retailers

A gourmet update on the syrupy soda popularly sold at street carts in Israel's early years mixes seasonal fruity tinctures with herbal infusions -- a boozy splash is optional