JERUSALEM — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's penchant for scented candles is setting off a stink, with media and politicians accusing him Monday of extravagantly spending public money.
According to an expense document obtained by a civil liberties group, Netanyahu spent $1,700 on scented candles, $23,300 on flower arrangements and $31,600 on gardening at his official residence in Jerusalem, among other costs totaling about $909,000 in 2012. The group obtained the document after a freedom of information request.
The criticism is the latest in a string of similar reproaches against Netanyahu, who is often accused by Israelis of leading a lavish lifestyle while failing to address the economic ills of the middle class.