New Credit Card Offers Discounts Exclusively to Israeli Draft Dodgers from Haredi Sector

A new credit card called "Asherich" has been launched in Israel, targeting young men who avoid military conscription, primarily from the Haredi (ultra-Orthodox Jewish) community. The card, created by the organization "Achim Anachnu" and the Haredi credit company "Kehilot Card," offers discounts at over 260 businesses nationwide. The key eligibility criterion for the card is draft evasion rather than traditional credit card requirements like frequent travel or high income.

Promotional materials for the card explicitly celebrate draft dodgers, with slogans such as "Caught? Asherich! Dear Torah hero, we proudly present to you the Asherich card," highlighting benefits including discounts, cash loading, and perks at various stores and attractions. Thousands of young Haredi men have already received the card after applying through the community's website, which emphasizes respect and simplicity in accessing discounts.

Among the listed participating businesses are "Kasherfon," offering 7-10% discounts, "Chont Leibish" with 15%, and the "Opticlick" chain also at 15%. However, some businesses featured on the card's brochures, such as "Jordan River Rafting" and "Golan Heights ATVs" from the Druze village Ein Qiniya, denied any formal agreement to provide discounts or be associated with the card. Jordan River Rafting even stated it was unaware of its inclusion and is seeking to remove the advertisement.

The card's operators have not responded to requests for comment. The card is distributed in limited quantities and is expected to be renewed in the Hebrew month of Elul. This initiative comes amid ongoing debates in Israel about the exemption of Haredi men from military service and related legal and social controversies.