Bank Hapoalim announces concessions for reservists, civilians near Gaza

As the fighting with the Hamas terror group enters its fourth day, Bank Hapoalim, one of Israel’s largest lenders, announces a series of concessions for customers who live up to 40 kilometers (25 miles) from the Gaza Strip, and for called-up reservists.

The bank is creating a NIS 750 million fund to offer interest-free bridging loans to business and private customers in the south of the country. As part of the concessions, Bank Hapoalim will enable the deferment of loan payments for up to two months without additional cost and exempt customers from main bank transfer fees for three months.

Additionally, all customers with an active current account at Bank Hapoalim will be able to take out loans at the prime rate, reschedule or defer payments of existing loans, and defer or spread bank credit card charges.

Furthermore, customers will be given the possibility to freeze mortgage payments for up to three months.