New law mandating graphic images of smoking dangers on tobacco product packaging takes effect
CEO of the Israel Cancer Association, Moshe Bar Haim, called the legislation "a very dramatic milestone in the fight against smoking," which claims more than 1,000 lives in Israel every month.
From Sunday, all tobacco products sold in Israel must prominently feature graphic images depicting the dangers of smoking. This regulation, which mandates that the warning area cover 75% of packaging, joins a global trend as Israel becomes the 140th country to adopt this requirement. These images, combined with scientific information, will direct users to the national smoking cessation hotline and Israel's health funds.
The remaining 25% of the packaging must be covered in a dark brown and olive green tint, dubbed Pantone 448C, the "ugliest color in the world."
The law, part of the WHO's Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, Israel ratified in 2005, aims to curb smoking-related health issues. Currently, 66% of the world's population is covered by this policy, which experts consider highly effective in discouraging smoking and raising awareness of its risks. Israel's Cancer Association, which has battled for this legislation for two decades, described it as a "dramatic milestone" in the fight against smoking.
Association CEO Moshe Bar Haim emphasized that the images, he said, "may save lives" by authentically conveying the devastating effects of tobacco and deterring future smokers. He also criticized the industry's use of sweet flavors and scents to attract teenagers, advocating for a ban on flavored tobacco products.
The policy faces opposition, particularly from the tobacco industry, which seeks to market flavored products to younger consumers. Surveys show strong public support for the warnings, with 84% of Israelis backing the policy and 57% of young people agreeing it's crucial to highlight smoking's dangers. Despite this, smoking remains prevalent, with 24% of Israelis smoking cigarettes and 15% using e-cigarettes.
Hookah and cigar smoking are also on the rise. Israel's Cancer Association warns that nearly half of the public knows smokers struggling to quit, and 53% of smokers regret starting in the first place. Stress, anxiety, and the security situation are driving some to resume or increase their smoking. Under the new law, promoting smoking products without warning images is punishable by fines.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
