Ultra-Orthodox Group Issues Discount Cards to Draft Dodgers to Counter Israeli Sanctions

A new initiative by an ultra-Orthodox organization called "Brothers We Are" is providing economic benefits and discounts to Haredi draft dodgers in Israel through personalized discount cards. These cards, issued with the holder's name and ID number, offer discounts ranging from 5% to 50% at hundreds of businesses nationwide. The organization openly states that the purpose is to circumvent the state's economic sanctions against draft evaders and to provide financial support to them. A spokesperson explained, "As the state tightens economic pressure, we seek to assist by lowering living costs and offering significant benefits to ease the burden on yeshiva students and draft dodgers. The sanctions will not break us." So far, about 1,000 cards have been distributed, with a target of reaching 100,000 holders. The card also functions as a prepaid card, aiming to expand the scope of benefits available to the draft dodgers.