Israel Discount Bank
Full Text
בנק דיסקונט לישראל בע"מ
Head office: Discount 1, Rishon LeZion 7574602, Israel. Tel.: +972-3-9439111
A publicly traded Israeli commercial bank that provides a variety of banking and financial services, including in the credit card sector, the investment sector, and portfolio management. Discount Group holds full ownership of Mercantile Discount Bank in Israel and IDBNY Bank for banking operations in the United States.
The Discount Bank Group provides financial foundation and services for settlements and settlement expansion, and benefits from financial activity in illegal Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territory. In addition, the bank finances renewable energy projects on occupied land. Furthermore, the bank benefits from access to the Palestinian banking market as a captive market that is dependent on the Israeli banking system.
Financing Construction and Infrastructure Projects in Illegal Settlements
Discount bank provides financial infrastructure and mortgages to various construction companies for the purpose of building real estate projects in settlements in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem and holds the companies’ rights to the lands and projects as collateral.
Geva Binyamin
In April 2022, the bank granted Israeli construction company Bar-Amana Buildings Construction & Development Co. a loan for the construction of 45 housing units across 10.684 dunams (10,684 square meters) of land in the settlement of Geva Binyamin (Adam) in the occupied West Bank, on lands belonging to the Palestinian village of Jaba', according to Plan No. 240/2/14/3/1. The bank holds as collateral a first-degree lien and mortgage on the real estate, including rights arising from winning the construction tender and all rights arising from insurance of the mortgaged property; and rights to all funds and financial rights that will reach the company from the Custodian of Absentee Property in the West Bank. Bar-Amana Buildings Construction & Development Co. is a construction and development company owned by the settlement movement Amana (Amana from the settlement movement of the Central Cooperative Association Gush Emunim). Amana is considered the main settlement arm of the settlers, working to establish illegal settlements and outposts in the occupied Palestinian territory. The company is based in the Ma'alot Dafna settlement neighborhood in occupied East Jerusalem.
Beitar Ilit
In 2021, Discount Bank granted Israeli construction company Shitrit Ayalon company a loan for a construction project on 4.5 dunams of land in the settlement of Beitar Ilit in the occupied West Bank. The bank holds as collateral the company’s contractual and rights to the land and project.
Ariel
In December 2021, the bank granted Israeli construction company Kedma in Ariel Ltd. a loan for a construction project of 91 housing units on 25 plots of land across 20.423 dunams on lands belonging to the Palestinian towns of Salfit and Marda in the occupied West Bank. The project is part of City Plan No. 130/8 for housing southeast of Ariel on an area of 443.294 dunams on Salfit and Marda lands as part of a housing program of the Ministry of Construction and Housing and the Israel Land Authority for buying a first apartment on preferential terms. The bank holds as collateral liens on all of the company's rights and assets in the real estate located in Ariel, including all construction rights and everything built and/or to be built on it; and rights under the real estate lease contract and the tender given to the company by the Israeli Civil Administration in the West Bank; the company's rights in the account maintained at the bank branch, in the project's receipts, including the money of purchasers and/or tenants of units and/or areas and/or parts of the real estate and/or the project, the company's rights towards suppliers and/or subcontractors and/or service providers for the project and/or in connection with it; the company's rights in its funds in the bank, and in the mortgaged assets related to the project.
Ramat Shlomo
In January 2019, the bank granted Israeli construction company Effi Capital Nadlan a loan for a construction project of 136 housing units across 7.726 dunams in the settlement neighborhood of Ramat Shlomo in occupied East Jerusalem. The project is part of City Plan No. 11085 for the expansion of the settlement neighborhood by adding 1,531 housing units, public buildings, institutions, waterworks and infrastructure across 561.448 dunams. The bank holds as collateral a first and exclusive lien without limitation in amount on all of the company's rights of any kind and type in the property, including all ownership, lease, development, and contractual rights, and all funds and financial rights that will reach the company in connection with the mortgaged property.
In October 2022, the bank granted the company an additional loan for the same project, for which the bank holds as collateral a lien on all of the company's rights and assets in the real estate, including all construction rights and everything built and/or to be built on and/or under it and everything located and/or to be located there in the future and rights under the lease agreement under which the real estate was purchased from the Israel Land Authority; the company's rights in the projct's receipts, including the money of purchasers and/or tenants of the project, suppliers and/or subcontractors, and/or service providers for the project and/or in connection with it; the company's rights in its funds in the bank, and in the mortgaged assets related to the project; and all rights under a contract for the construction of public infrastructure signed between the mortgagors and Moriah Jerusalem Development Company Ltd.
In June 2024, the bank granted the company an additional loan for the same project, for which the bank holds as collateral a first and exclusive mortgage on the lease of the land as it is today and as it will be in the future, including all building rights and all rights of any kind or type in connection with the mortgaged properties.
Old City in Jerusalem
In February 2022 and in 2020, Discount Bank granted Israeli construction company Shoham Engineering and Developmentloans against all the company’s funds and financial rights from its projects with The Society for the Reconstruction and Development of the Jewish Quarter in the Old City in occupied East Jerusalem. The bank holds as collateral the company’s contractual and actual rights in the land and the project.
Atarot Industrial Zone
In June 2016, the bank granted Israeli construction company Zalman Barashi & Bros Co. a loan in relation to a property on 3.215 dunams of land in the Atarot Industrial Zone in occupied East Jerusalem, as part of City Plan No. 1689 for the designation of land for industrial and commercial areas and new roads in the industrial zone.
The company holds as collateral a first-degree lien and mortgage on all of the company's rights arising from a lease agreement with the Israel Lands Authority and all rights relating to the insurance of the mortgaged property, and a lien and check on all funds and financial rights that will reach the company from the Israel Lands Authority.
Previously, the bank financed additional construction projects in the settlements of Alfei Menashe, Ariel and Mishor Adumim in the occupied West Bank, and the settlement neighborhoods of Gilo and Neve Ya'akov in occupied East Jerusalem. For more, see Who Profits’ report from 2017 Financing Land Grab: The Direct Involvement of Israeli Banks in the Israeli Settlement Enterprise.
Financing Settlement-Based Construction Companies
In November 2022, Mercantile Discount granted settlement-based construction and infrastructure contracting company Har Kabir Ltd., a loan, for which the bank holds as collateral a first degree permanent lien in an unlimited amount on all funds deposited and/or to be deposited in the company's account at the bank's branch in the settlement neighborhood of Ramot, and all rights arising from and/or related to it/them. The company is based in the settlement of Ariel in the occupied West Bank.
In April 2022, the bank granted settlement-based company Bar-Amana Buildings Construction & Development Co. a loan, for which the bank holds as collateral a first degree permanent lien on all funds deposited and/or to be deposited in the company's account/s at the bank's branch in the settlement neighborhood of Ramat Eshkol, and all rights arising from and/or related to it. In May 2019, the bank granted Bar Amana a loan for which the bank holds as collateral a permanent lien and a first mortgage on rights to all funds and financial rights of any kind that accrue and/or will accrue to the company from the Jerusalem Municipality pursuant to an agreement dated December 2017.
Banking Services to Settlement Local and Regional Councils
Discount Bank provides loans, credit and banking services to settlements regional and local councils in the occupied West Bank and the Syrian Golan. These loans can be used to develop infrastructure, build public facilities and provide municipal services to the residents of the settlement.
Discount Bank, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank provide loans, credit facilities and various banking services for over 200 settlements in the occupied West Bank and the Syrian Golan.
These include the Gush Etzion Regional Council (consisting of 24 settlements), the Har Hevron Regional Council (consisting of 23 settlements in the South Hebron Hills area), the Jordan Valley Regional Council (consisting of 21 settlements in the Jordan Valley area), the Megilot Dead Sea Regional Council (consisting of 8 settlements in the northern Dead Sea area), the Mateh Binyamin Regional Council (consisting of 52 settlements), the Shomron Regional Council (consisting of 33 settlements), and the settlements of Alfei Menashe, Ariel, Beit Aryeh-Ofarim, Beit El, Beitar Ilit, Elkana, Emanuel, Givat Ze'ev, Gush Etzion, Har Adar, Karnei Shomron, Kdumim, Kiryat Arba, Ma'ale Adumim, Ma'ale Efraim, Modiin Ilit, Oranit, and Sha’ar Shomron in the occupied West Bank. In addition, the bank has provided such services to the Golan Regional Council, consisting of 33 settlements in the occupied Syrian Golan, and the settlement of Katzrin in the occupied Syrian Golan.
Gush Etzion Regional Council
The Gush Etzion Regional Council consists of 24 settlements in the occupied West Bank.
As of April 2026, Israel Discount Bank, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had a total of 12 active pledge agreements with the Gush Etzion Regional Council in the occupied West Bank.
In September 2024, Discount Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Gush Etzion Regional Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2041) for a loan in the principal amount of NIS 8,000,000. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all current and future revenues.
In July 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Gush Etzion Regional Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2040) for a loan of NIS 13,500,00. The bank holds the council’s current and future revenue as collateral.
In May 2022, Israel Discount Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Gush Etzion Regional Council for a period of 45 years (ends 2067), for which the bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenue as collateral.
In February 2021, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Gush Etzion Regional Council for a period of 13 years (ends 2034) for a loan of NIS 7,900,000. The bank holds the council’s current and future revenue as collateral.
Har Hevron Regional Council
The Har Hevron Regional Council consists of 23 settlements in the South Hebron Hills area in the occupied West Bank.
As of April 2026, Israel Discount and Mercantile Discount Bank have 14 active pledge agreements with the Har Hevron Regional Council in the occupied West Bank.
According to the Regional Council’s meeting protocols, in May 2025, the council approved taking out a NIS 9.3 million loan from Mercantile Bank for 15 years, approved by the bank. In 2024 and 2025, Discount and Mercantile provided the council with a total of NIS 4,800,000 in credit facilities.
In October 2025, Discount Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Har Hevron Regional Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2042) for a loan of NIS 5,565,000. The bank holds as collateral the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues.
In July 2025, Discount Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Har Hevron Regional Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2042) for a loan of NIS 3,752,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In August 2024, Discount Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Har Hevron Regional Council for a period of 15 years (ends 2039). The bank holds as collateral the council’s rights to all revenues, excluding water and sewage revenues, arising from assets located within its jurisdiction.
According to the council’s meeting protocols, in 2024, Discount Bank provided the council with a NIS 750,000 loan.
In 2023, the bank provided the council with a NIS 2,700,000 credit facility from Mercantile Bank and a NIS 1,750,000 credit facility from Discount Bank. In September 2023, the council approved a NIS 2,241,278 loan from Mercantile Bank for 15 years. Also in 2023, the council maintained 4 bank accounts in Mercantile Bank for 4 schools located in the settlements of Susya, Atniel, and Sansana, which are under its jurisdiction.
In 2022, the bank provided the council with a NIS 1,980,000 credit facility from Mercantile Bank and a NIS 1,750,000 credit facility from Discount Bank.
Jordan Valley Regional Council
The Jordan Valley Regional Council (also known as Bik'at HaYarden Regional Council) consists of 21 settlements in the Jordan Valley area in the occupied West Bank.
As of April 2026, Israel Discount, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 2 active pledge agreements with the Jordan Valley Regional Council.
In August 2022, the bank signed a pledge agreement with the Jordan Valley Regional Council for a period of 10 years (ends 2032) for a loan in principal amount of NIS 2,123,544. The bank holds as collateral a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all revenue that originates from assets located within its jurisdiction.
In May 2022, the bank signed a pledge agreement with the Jordan Valley Regional Council for a period of 12 years (ends 2034) for a loan in principal amount of NIS 10 million. The bank holds as collateral a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all revenue that originates from assets located within its jurisdiction.
Megilot Dead Sea Regional Council
The Megilot Dead Sea Regional Council consists of 8 settlements in the northern Dead Sea area in the occupied West Bank.
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount has 3 active pledge agreements with the Megilot Dead Sea Regional Council in the occupied West Bank.
In August 2018, Mercantile Discount signed 3 pledge agreements with the Megilot Dead Sea Regional Council for a period of 35 years (ends 2053), for three loans of NIS 1,414,114, NIS 362,647, and NIS 1,978,687. The bank holds the council’s rights to its current and future revenue and property as collateral.
Mateh Binyamin Regional Council
The Mateh Binyamin Regional Council consists of 52 settlements in the central occupied West Bank.
As of April 2026, Israel Discount, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 6 active pledge agreements with the Mateh Binyamin Regional Council in the occupied West Bank.
According to the Regional Council’s meeting protocols, in 2024 and 2025, Discount Bank provided the council with a NIS 20 million credit facility.
In August 2018, Israel Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Mateh Binyamin Regional Council for a period of 25 years (ends 2043) for a loan of NIS 130 million. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenue and property as collateral.
Shomron Regional Council
The Shomron Regional Council consists of 33 settlements in the central occupied West Bank.
As of April 2026, Israel Discount and Mercantile Discount had 8 active pledge agreements with the Shomron Regional Council in the occupied West Bank.
In February 2026, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Shomron Regional Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2043) for a loan of NIS 750,000. The bank holds a first-degree lien on all the council’s current and future revenues.
In December 2025, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Shomron Regional Council for a period of 15 years (ends 2040) for a loan of NIS 3 million. The bank holds as collateral a first-degree lien on all the council’s current and future revenues.
In July 2025, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Shomron Regional Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2042) for a loan of NIS 2 million. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In November 2024, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Shomron Regional Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2041) for a loan of NIS 9,300,000. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In July 2024, Mercantile Bank signed 2 pledge agreements (ending 2041) with the Shomron Regional Council for two loans in the amounts of NIS 1 million and NIS 3 million. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Alfei Menashe
As of April 2026, Israel Discount and Municipal Bank had 2 active pledge agreements with the Alfei Menashe Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In November 2025, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Alfei Menashe Local Council for a period of 7 years (ends 2032) for a loan of NIS 1,445,000. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In November 2020, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Alfei Menashe Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2119) for a loan of NIS 3.5 million. The bank holds as collateral the council’s rights to all revenue that originates from assets located within its jurisdiction.
In October 2020, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Alfei Menashe Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2119) for a loan of NIS 2,021,000. The bank holds as collateral the council’s rights to all revenue that originates from assets located within its jurisdiction.
Ariel
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount had 4 active pledge agreements with the Ariel Municipality in the occupied West Bank.
In December 2025, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Ariel Municipality for a period of 17 years (ends 2042) for a loan in the principal amount of NIS 4 million. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In February 2025, Mercantile signed 2 pledge agreements for a period of 17 years (ending 2042) with the Ariel Municipality for two loans in the principal amounts of NIS 2,496,802 and NIS 6,768,000. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In June 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Ariel Municipality for a period of 10 years (ends 2032) for a loan of NIS 3,877,679. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
According to the Municipality’s meeting protocols, in 2020, Mercantile Discount granted the Municipality with a NIS 3 million loan for 15 years for the construction of a country club in the settlement.
Beit El
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount had 5 active pledge agreements with the Beit El Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In April 2025, Mercantile Discount Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Beit El Local Council for a period of 13 years (ends 2038) for a loan in the principal amount of NIS 22,500,000. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In May 2022, Mercantile Discount Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Beit El Local Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2039) for a loan in the principal amount of NIS 3 million. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Beit Aryeh-Ofarim
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount had 14 active pledge agreements with the Beit Aryeh Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
According to the council’s meeting protocols, in February 2025, the council approved increasing the short-term credit limit provided to it by Mercantile Discount from NIS 3,000,000 to 9% of the council's budget for the period between January and June 2025. In November 2024, the council approved a permit to receive credit for a NIS 3,000,000 loan for 2025 from Mercantile Discount. According to the council's protocols, Mercantile Bank is the main bank through which the council requests a line of credit. In 2024, Mercantile Discount provided the council with NIS 2.5 million credit loans. In 2023, Mercantile Discount provided the council with NIS 2.5 million credit loans. Between July and December 2022, Mercantile Discount provided the council with NIS 2 million credit loans.
In December 2023, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Beit Aryeh Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2122). The bank holds a first-degree mortgage on the council’s rights to all current and future revenues, including taxes, municipal taxes, license fees, and any other amount of any kind up to the amount of the secured amounts defined in the mortgage deed.
In July 2023, Mercantile Bank signed 2 pledge agreements with the Beit Aryeh Local Council for a period of 99 years and 17 years respectively, for two loans in the principal amount of NIS 2,500,000 and NIS 300,000. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all current and future revenues.
The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all current and future revenues.
In June 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Beit Aryeh Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2121) for a loan of NIS 750,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In April 2023, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Beit Aryeh Local Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2040) for a loan in the principal amount of NIS 700,000. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In March 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Beit Aryeh Local Council for a period of 8 years (ends 2031) for a loan of NIS 2,036,549. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In January 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Beit Aryeh Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2122) for a loan of NIS 750,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In May 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Beit Aryeh Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2121) for a loan of NIS 500,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In April 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Beit Aryeh Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2121) for a loan of NIS 7,900,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In January 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Beit Aryeh Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2121) for a loan of NIS 890,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Beitar Ilit
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount had 4 active pledge agreements with the Beitar Ilit Municipality in the occupied West Bank.
In August 2024, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Beitar Ilit Municipality for a period of 45 years (ends 2069). The bank holds all rights to receive funds due in respect of the CompuSafe device (cash storage, management and deposit system) located in the municipality building, including all property rights, ownership rights, possession rights, and any other rights.
In August 2015, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Beitar Ilit Municipality for a period of 20 years (ends 2035), for which the bank holds as collateral the council’s rights to current and future funds from the Israel Police in respect of a rental agreement.
In November 2010, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Beitar Ilit Municipality for a period of 99 years (ends 2109), for which the bank holds as collateral the council’s rights for funds from Isracard Ltd., the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of the Interior and the municipality's own receipts.
Elkana
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 5 active pledge agreements with the Elkana Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In February 2024, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Elkana Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2123). The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all current and future revenues, including taxes, municipal taxes, license fees, and any other amount of any kind up to the amount of the secured amounts defined in the mortgage deed.
According to the council’s meeting protocols, in 2024, Mercantile Discount provided the council approved a NIS 1 million loan for 2024. In March 2023, the council decided to open an account at the Mercantile Discount and work with the bank in all areas of operation as well as receive banking services according to the council's needs.
In December 2022, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Elkana Local Council for a period of 10 years (ends 2032) for a loan of NIS 2,099,330. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Emanuel
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 3 active pledge agreements with the Emanuel Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In September 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Emanuel Local Council for a period of 10 years (ends 2033) for a loan of NIS 1,573,934. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In September 2019, Municipal Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Emanuel Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2118) for a loan in the principal amount of NIS 1 million. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Givat Ze'ev
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount had 2 active pledge agreements with the Givat Ze’ev Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In February 2010, Mercantile Discount signed 2 pledge agreements with the Givat Ze’ev Local Council (ending 2030), for which the bank holds as collateral all the council’s rights for current and future funds from the Ministry of Interior, and all the council’s rights for current and future funds from Israelcard Ltd. and Israel Credit Cards Ltd.
According to the council’s meeting protocols, in June 2022, the council opened a bank account at Mercantile Bank.
In February 2010, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Givat Ze’ev Local Council for a period of 20 years (ends 2030), for which the bank holds as collateral all the council’s rights for current and future funds from the Ministry of Education.
Har Adar
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount Bank had 5 active pledge agreements with the Har Adar Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In February 2026, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Har Adar Local Council for a period of 12 years (ends 2038) for a loan in the principal amount of NIS 1 million. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In April 2024, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Har Adar Local Council for a period of 12 years (ends 2036) for a loan of NIS 2,100,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In December 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Har Adar Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2122), for which the bank holds as collateral the council’s current and future revenue as collateral.
According to the council’s meeting protocols, in October 2023, Mercantile Bank provided the council with a NIS 3,265,000 loan for 10 years.
In August 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Har Adar Local Council for a period of 7 years (ends 2029) for a loan of NIS 400,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In April 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Har Adar Local Council for a period of 12 years (ends 2034) for a loan of NIS 1,610,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Karnei Shomron
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 6 active pledge agreements with the Karnei Shomron Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In 2024, the council maintained an account at Mercantile Bank.
In January 2024, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Karnei Shomron Local Council for a period of 4 years (ends 2028) for a loan of NIS 550,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In July 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Karnei Shomron Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2122) for a loan of NIS 2,825,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In June 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Karnei Shomron Local Council for a period of 11 years (ends 2033) for a loan of NIS 2,025,561. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Kdumim
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 5 active pledge agreements with the Kdumim Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
As of July 2024, Mercantile Discount has 3 active pledge agreements with the Kedumim Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In March 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Kedumim Local Council for a period of 10 years (ends 2033) for a loan of NIS 2,095,951. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In August 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Kedumim Local Council for a period of 12 years (ends 2034) for a NIS 6,200,000 loan. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral. According to the council’s meeting protocols, the loan was approved by the council in May 2022.
In April 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Kedumim Local Council for a period of 10 years (ends 2032) for a loan of NIS 1,100,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Kiryat Arba
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount had 4 active pledge agreements with the Kiryat Arba Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
According to the Local Council’s meeting protocols, in 2025, Mercantile Bank provided the council with a NIS 2 credit facility. In December 2025, the council approved a NIS 2 million credit facility with Mercantile Bank for 2026.
As of April 2025, the Council had 3 outstanding loans from Mercantile Bank in the amounts of NIS 2,000,000, NIS 800,000, and NIS 1,850,000.
In February 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Kiryat Arba Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2121) for a NIS 1,850,000 loan. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral. According to the council's meeting protocols, the loan was approved by the council in October 2021.
In 2020, Mercantile Bank provided the council with a NIS 3 million loan.
Ma'ale Adumim
As of April 2026, Israel Discount and Mercantile Bank had 8 active pledge agreements with the Ma’ale Adumim Municipality in the occupied West Bank.
According to the council’s meeting protocols, in January 2023, Discount Bank provided a NIS 4 million loan for managing the current cash flow of the municipality for 2023.
In July 2023, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Ma’ale Adumim Municipality for a period of 17 years (ends 2040) for a loan of NIS 16 million. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In June 2022, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Ma’ale Adumim Municipality for a period of 17 years (ends 2039) for a loan of NIS 11 million. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Ma'ale Efraim
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 4 active pledge agreements with the Ma’ale Efraim Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In March 2026, Discount Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Ma’ale Efraim Local Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2043) for a loan in the principal amount of NIS 4,100,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Modiin Ilit
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 7 active pledge agreements with the Modiin Ilit Municipality in the occupied West Bank.
In July 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Modiin Ilit Municipality for a period of 99 years (ends 2122) for a loan of NIS 4 million. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
According to the council’s meeting protocols, in July 2022, Mercantile Bank provided the council with a NIS 4 million loan for the renovation of roads.
In December 2018, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Modiin Ilit Municipality for a period of 12 years (ends 2030) for a loan of NIS 1,500,000. The bank holds as collateral a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all revenue that originates from assets located within its jurisdiction.
Oranit
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 6 active pledge agreements with the Oranit Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In January 2026, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Oranit Local Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2043) for a loan of NIS 4,000,000. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In March 2025, Discount Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Oranit Local Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2042) for a NIS 1,400,000 loan. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In June 2024, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Oranit Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2123) for a loan of NIS 950,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In March 2024, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Oranit Local Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2041) for a loan of NIS 800,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
According to the council’s meeting protocols, in March 2024, the council approved opening an account in Mercantile Discount for the council's ongoing activities.
In November 2023, Mercantile Bank provided the council with an NIS 8.5 million loan for 15 years. In March 2023, Mercantile Bank financed the purchase of a shelter for NIS 1,053,000 and provided a NIS 500,000 loan for the installation of solar panels on the roofs of public buildings in the settlement.
Sha’ar Shomron
According to the Sha’ar Shomron Local Council’s meeting protocols, in November 2023, the council opened an account at Mercantile Discount Bank.
Golan Regional Council
The Golan Regional Council consists of 33 settlements in the occupied Syrian Golan.
According to the Regional Council’s meeting protocols, in 2025, Discount Bank provided the council with a NIS 3 million credit facility. In December 2025, the council approved a NIS 3 million current loan account credit facility with Discount Bank for 2026.
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 7 active pledge agreements with the Golan Regional Council in the occupied Syrian Golan. The Golan Regional Council includes 33 settlements in the occupied Syrian Golan.
In June 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Golan Regional Council for a period of 14 years (ends 2037) for a loan of NIS 5 million. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
According to the council’s meeting protocols, in December 2022, the council opened an auxiliary account at Mercantile Discount for the contractor of a youth club project in the Yonatan settlement in the occupied Syrian Golan.
In July 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Golan Regional Council for a period of 12 years (ends 2034) for a loan of NIS 5 million. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In January 2018, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Golan Regional Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2117) for a loan of NIS 2 million. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Katzrin
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 5 active pledge agreements with the Katzrin Local Council in the occupied Syrian Golan.
In December 2023, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Katzrin Local Council for a period of 10 years (ends 2033) for a loan in the principal amount of NIS 2,280,656. The bank holds as collateral a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all revenue that originates from assets located within its jurisdiction.
In January 2022, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Katzrin Local Council for a period of 13 years (ends 2035) for a loan of NIS 900,000. The bank holds as collateral a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all revenue that originates from assets located within its jurisdiction.
In October 2021, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Katzrin Local Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2038) for a loan of NIS 850,000. The bank holds as collateral a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all revenue that originates from assets located within its jurisdiction.
Branches in Settlements
Discount Bank and Mercantile Discount operate branches providing banking services in settlements in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem.
Discount Bank operates branches in the settlement of Ma’ale Adumim in the occupied West Bank and the Ramat Eshkol settlement neighborhood in occupied East Jerusalem. Mercantile Discount operates branches in the settlement of Beitar Ilit in the occupied West Bank, and the Ramot settlement neighborhood in occupied East Jerusalem.
Palestinian Captive Market
Discount Bank benefits from access to the Palestinian banking market as a captive market. The bank provides banking correspondence services to banks operating in the Palestinian Authority that are dependent on the Israeli banking system. In addition, the bank operates branches in Palestinian neighborhoods in occupied East Jerusalem.
Discount Bank provides banking correspondence services to banks operating in the Palestinian Authority. Under the Paris Protocol, the Palestinian economy is subject to the Israeli currency and the Palestinian banking market's financial dealings with the rest of the world must go through the Israeli banking system. Palestinian banks are dependent on Israeli banks, which serve as correspondent banks, for fund transfers and clearing services, for which the bank requires deposit exorbitant cash collaterals and charges high commissions, and imposes restrictions on the transfer of money.
In addition, the bank operates a branch in Sultan Sulayman Street in East Jerusalem, and a Mercantile Bank branch in Nablus Road in East Jerusalem.
Financing Energy Projects on Occupied Land
Discount Bank provides financial infrastructure to renewable energy projects in the occupied West Bank, the Syrian Golan, and the Naqab region, contingent on the exploitation of occupied natural resources and the dispossession of local Palestinian residents.
Wind Farm in the Syrian Golan
Discount Bank is the financier of the ARAN wind turbine farm in the occupied Syrian Golan.
In June 2021, Discount Bank was selected by Energix Renewable Energies to finance the construction of the ARAN wind turbine farm in the northeastern Golan for an estimated amount of NIS 800 million. Following this, in June 2022, the bank signed an agreement with Energix's subsidiary, Clean Wind Energy Ltd., to provide approximately NIS 650 million for the construction of the project.
The ARAN wind farm project is planned to include 41 wind turbines on agricultural lands owned by local farmers near the Druze town of Majdal Shams and the village of Mas'ada in the Northern Syrian Golan. The wind farm will occupy about a fifth of the agricultural land that is still in the possession of Syrian residents in the occupied Golan and will deny them access to their natural resources.
The project is currently under construction, and has been postponed, among others due to a struggle by local residents and landowners. For more on the exploitation of occupied natural resources by the Israeli renewable energy sector, see Who Profits’ report Greenwashing Dispossession: The Israeli Renewable Energy Industry and the Exploitation of Occupied Natural Resources.
Solar Project in the Naqab
In February 2026, Discount Bank announced it would provide NIS 800 million in financing for a solar project planned to be the largest in Israel, to be built on an area of 1,400 dunams in the Naqab.
For more information on solar projects in the Naqab, see Who Profits’ reports: Greenwashing Dispossession: The Israeli Renewable Energy Industry and the Exploitation of Occupied Natural Resources; Plundering the Sun: The Israeli Solar Energy Industry and Palestinian Forced Displacement; and Greenwashing the Naqab: The Israeli Industry of Solar Energy: Tools of Dispossession in the Naqab.
Services to Settlements
In January 2024, Discount Bank financed the establishment of a new public transportation company operating in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem.
The company “Derech Egged”, a subsidiary of Egged Group, won the Ministry of Transportation tender to operate bus lines between Jerusalem and nearby areas, including Ramot and Givat Ze’ev settlement neighborhoods in occupied East Jerusalem and Beit Horon settlement and Ofer military camp in the occupied West Bank. Discount Bank granted Egged NIS 340 million for the purchase of new buses and additional investments to improve service, covering 90% of the investment required to establish the lines.
Holdings in Complicit Companies
Through its fully owned subsidiary, Isreal Discount Bank Registration Company Ltd., Discount Bank holds 0.069% in Hanson (Israel) Ltd. Hanson Israel, a subsidiary of Heidelberg Materials, owns and operates a quarry for the production and sale of ready-mix concrete and asphalt mixture in the occupied West Bank.
Services to the Israeli Military
Israeli Military Intelligence Campus
In August 2022, Discount Bank, together with Harel Insurance Investments and Financial Services, led the financing of the Israeli military’s Intelligence Campus project in the Naqab in the amount of NIS 4.2 billion.
The Israeli military Intelligence Campus, also known as Kiryat Hatikshuv, is located near Likit junction, adjacent to the Palestinian Bedouin village of Lakiya. The campus spreads over 2,500,000 m2 to host the military’s Intelligence operations and houses about 12,000 soldiers and officers of the Intelligence, Cyber and Technology (ICT) units, as well as the headquarters units of the Intelligence Division.
The project was part of the Israeli Ministry of Defense relocation plan of the military technology units to the Naqab region. These include the ICT Corps’ technology unit, the Air Force’s technology unit and the Southern Command headquarters.
For more, see Who Profits’ interactive map: Tools of Dispossession in the Naqab: Development and Military Projects.
Banking Services to Israeli Soldiers
Discount Bank provides special benefits to soldiers, including exemption from fees and a "Soldiers' Account" designed for soldiers up to the age of 25, which offers benefits and exemptions.
Services to the Israel Police
In 2012, Discount Bank was the main financier in the amount of NIS 725 million of the “Policity” project for the establishment of the National Police Academy campus and training facility for the Israel Police.
A publicly traded Israeli commercial bank that provides a variety of banking and financial services, including in the credit card sector, the investment sector, and portfolio management. Discount Group holds full ownership of Mercantile Discount Bank in Israel and IDBNY Bank for banking operations in the United States.
The Discount Bank Group provides financial foundation and services for settlements and settlement expansion, and benefits from financial activity in illegal Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territory. In addition, the bank finances renewable energy projects on occupied land. Furthermore, the bank benefits from access to the Palestinian banking market as a captive market that is dependent on the Israeli banking system.
Financing Construction and Infrastructure Projects in Illegal Settlements
Discount bank provides financial infrastructure and mortgages to various construction companies for the purpose of building real estate projects in settlements in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem and holds the companies’ rights to the lands and projects as collateral.
Geva Binyamin
In April 2022, the bank granted Israeli construction company Bar-Amana Buildings Construction & Development Co. a loan for the construction of 45 housing units across 10.684 dunams (10,684 square meters) of land in the settlement of Geva Binyamin (Adam) in the occupied West Bank, on lands belonging to the Palestinian village of Jaba', according to Plan No. 240/2/14/3/1. The bank holds as collateral a first-degree lien and mortgage on the real estate, including rights arising from winning the construction tender and all rights arising from insurance of the mortgaged property; and rights to all funds and financial rights that will reach the company from the Custodian of Absentee Property in the West Bank. Bar-Amana Buildings Construction & Development Co. is a construction and development company owned by the settlement movement Amana (Amana from the settlement movement of the Central Cooperative Association Gush Emunim). Amana is considered the main settlement arm of the settlers, working to establish illegal settlements and outposts in the occupied Palestinian territory. The company is based in the Ma'alot Dafna settlement neighborhood in occupied East Jerusalem.
Beitar Ilit
In 2021, Discount Bank granted Israeli construction company Shitrit Ayalon company a loan for a construction project on 4.5 dunams of land in the settlement of Beitar Ilit in the occupied West Bank. The bank holds as collateral the company’s contractual and rights to the land and project.
Ariel
In December 2021, the bank granted Israeli construction company Kedma in Ariel Ltd. a loan for a construction project of 91 housing units on 25 plots of land across 20.423 dunams on lands belonging to the Palestinian towns of Salfit and Marda in the occupied West Bank. The project is part of City Plan No. 130/8 for housing southeast of Ariel on an area of 443.294 dunams on Salfit and Marda lands as part of a housing program of the Ministry of Construction and Housing and the Israel Land Authority for buying a first apartment on preferential terms. The bank holds as collateral liens on all of the company's rights and assets in the real estate located in Ariel, including all construction rights and everything built and/or to be built on it; and rights under the real estate lease contract and the tender given to the company by the Israeli Civil Administration in the West Bank; the company's rights in the account maintained at the bank branch, in the project's receipts, including the money of purchasers and/or tenants of units and/or areas and/or parts of the real estate and/or the project, the company's rights towards suppliers and/or subcontractors and/or service providers for the project and/or in connection with it; the company's rights in its funds in the bank, and in the mortgaged assets related to the project.
Ramat Shlomo
In January 2019, the bank granted Israeli construction company Effi Capital Nadlan a loan for a construction project of 136 housing units across 7.726 dunams in the settlement neighborhood of Ramat Shlomo in occupied East Jerusalem. The project is part of City Plan No. 11085 for the expansion of the settlement neighborhood by adding 1,531 housing units, public buildings, institutions, waterworks and infrastructure across 561.448 dunams. The bank holds as collateral a first and exclusive lien without limitation in amount on all of the company's rights of any kind and type in the property, including all ownership, lease, development, and contractual rights, and all funds and financial rights that will reach the company in connection with the mortgaged property.
In October 2022, the bank granted the company an additional loan for the same project, for which the bank holds as collateral a lien on all of the company's rights and assets in the real estate, including all construction rights and everything built and/or to be built on and/or under it and everything located and/or to be located there in the future and rights under the lease agreement under which the real estate was purchased from the Israel Land Authority; the company's rights in the projct's receipts, including the money of purchasers and/or tenants of the project, suppliers and/or subcontractors, and/or service providers for the project and/or in connection with it; the company's rights in its funds in the bank, and in the mortgaged assets related to the project; and all rights under a contract for the construction of public infrastructure signed between the mortgagors and Moriah Jerusalem Development Company Ltd.
In June 2024, the bank granted the company an additional loan for the same project, for which the bank holds as collateral a first and exclusive mortgage on the lease of the land as it is today and as it will be in the future, including all building rights and all rights of any kind or type in connection with the mortgaged properties.
Old City in Jerusalem
In February 2022 and in 2020, Discount Bank granted Israeli construction company Shoham Engineering and Developmentloans against all the company’s funds and financial rights from its projects with The Society for the Reconstruction and Development of the Jewish Quarter in the Old City in occupied East Jerusalem. The bank holds as collateral the company’s contractual and actual rights in the land and the project.
Atarot Industrial Zone
In June 2016, the bank granted Israeli construction company Zalman Barashi & Bros Co. a loan in relation to a property on 3.215 dunams of land in the Atarot Industrial Zone in occupied East Jerusalem, as part of City Plan No. 1689 for the designation of land for industrial and commercial areas and new roads in the industrial zone.
The company holds as collateral a first-degree lien and mortgage on all of the company's rights arising from a lease agreement with the Israel Lands Authority and all rights relating to the insurance of the mortgaged property, and a lien and check on all funds and financial rights that will reach the company from the Israel Lands Authority.
Previously, the bank financed additional construction projects in the settlements of Alfei Menashe, Ariel and Mishor Adumim in the occupied West Bank, and the settlement neighborhoods of Gilo and Neve Ya'akov in occupied East Jerusalem. For more, see Who Profits’ report from 2017 Financing Land Grab: The Direct Involvement of Israeli Banks in the Israeli Settlement Enterprise.
Financing Settlement-Based Construction Companies
In November 2022, Mercantile Discount granted settlement-based construction and infrastructure contracting company Har Kabir Ltd., a loan, for which the bank holds as collateral a first degree permanent lien in an unlimited amount on all funds deposited and/or to be deposited in the company's account at the bank's branch in the settlement neighborhood of Ramot, and all rights arising from and/or related to it/them. The company is based in the settlement of Ariel in the occupied West Bank.
In April 2022, the bank granted settlement-based company Bar-Amana Buildings Construction & Development Co. a loan, for which the bank holds as collateral a first degree permanent lien on all funds deposited and/or to be deposited in the company's account/s at the bank's branch in the settlement neighborhood of Ramat Eshkol, and all rights arising from and/or related to it. In May 2019, the bank granted Bar Amana a loan for which the bank holds as collateral a permanent lien and a first mortgage on rights to all funds and financial rights of any kind that accrue and/or will accrue to the company from the Jerusalem Municipality pursuant to an agreement dated December 2017.
Banking Services to Settlement Local and Regional Councils
Discount Bank provides loans, credit and banking services to settlements regional and local councils in the occupied West Bank and the Syrian Golan. These loans can be used to develop infrastructure, build public facilities and provide municipal services to the residents of the settlement.
Discount Bank, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank provide loans, credit facilities and various banking services for over 200 settlements in the occupied West Bank and the Syrian Golan.
These include the Gush Etzion Regional Council (consisting of 24 settlements), the Har Hevron Regional Council (consisting of 23 settlements in the South Hebron Hills area), the Jordan Valley Regional Council (consisting of 21 settlements in the Jordan Valley area), the Megilot Dead Sea Regional Council (consisting of 8 settlements in the northern Dead Sea area), the Mateh Binyamin Regional Council (consisting of 52 settlements), the Shomron Regional Council (consisting of 33 settlements), and the settlements of Alfei Menashe, Ariel, Beit Aryeh-Ofarim, Beit El, Beitar Ilit, Elkana, Emanuel, Givat Ze'ev, Gush Etzion, Har Adar, Karnei Shomron, Kdumim, Kiryat Arba, Ma'ale Adumim, Ma'ale Efraim, Modiin Ilit, Oranit, and Sha’ar Shomron in the occupied West Bank. In addition, the bank has provided such services to the Golan Regional Council, consisting of 33 settlements in the occupied Syrian Golan, and the settlement of Katzrin in the occupied Syrian Golan.
Gush Etzion Regional Council
The Gush Etzion Regional Council consists of 24 settlements in the occupied West Bank.
As of April 2026, Israel Discount Bank, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had a total of 12 active pledge agreements with the Gush Etzion Regional Council in the occupied West Bank.
In September 2024, Discount Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Gush Etzion Regional Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2041) for a loan in the principal amount of NIS 8,000,000. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all current and future revenues.
In July 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Gush Etzion Regional Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2040) for a loan of NIS 13,500,00. The bank holds the council’s current and future revenue as collateral.
In May 2022, Israel Discount Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Gush Etzion Regional Council for a period of 45 years (ends 2067), for which the bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenue as collateral.
In February 2021, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Gush Etzion Regional Council for a period of 13 years (ends 2034) for a loan of NIS 7,900,000. The bank holds the council’s current and future revenue as collateral.
Har Hevron Regional Council
The Har Hevron Regional Council consists of 23 settlements in the South Hebron Hills area in the occupied West Bank.
As of April 2026, Israel Discount and Mercantile Discount Bank have 14 active pledge agreements with the Har Hevron Regional Council in the occupied West Bank.
According to the Regional Council’s meeting protocols, in May 2025, the council approved taking out a NIS 9.3 million loan from Mercantile Bank for 15 years, approved by the bank. In 2024 and 2025, Discount and Mercantile provided the council with a total of NIS 4,800,000 in credit facilities.
In October 2025, Discount Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Har Hevron Regional Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2042) for a loan of NIS 5,565,000. The bank holds as collateral the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues.
In July 2025, Discount Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Har Hevron Regional Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2042) for a loan of NIS 3,752,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In August 2024, Discount Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Har Hevron Regional Council for a period of 15 years (ends 2039). The bank holds as collateral the council’s rights to all revenues, excluding water and sewage revenues, arising from assets located within its jurisdiction.
According to the council’s meeting protocols, in 2024, Discount Bank provided the council with a NIS 750,000 loan.
In 2023, the bank provided the council with a NIS 2,700,000 credit facility from Mercantile Bank and a NIS 1,750,000 credit facility from Discount Bank. In September 2023, the council approved a NIS 2,241,278 loan from Mercantile Bank for 15 years. Also in 2023, the council maintained 4 bank accounts in Mercantile Bank for 4 schools located in the settlements of Susya, Atniel, and Sansana, which are under its jurisdiction.
In 2022, the bank provided the council with a NIS 1,980,000 credit facility from Mercantile Bank and a NIS 1,750,000 credit facility from Discount Bank.
Jordan Valley Regional Council
The Jordan Valley Regional Council (also known as Bik'at HaYarden Regional Council) consists of 21 settlements in the Jordan Valley area in the occupied West Bank.
As of April 2026, Israel Discount, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 2 active pledge agreements with the Jordan Valley Regional Council.
In August 2022, the bank signed a pledge agreement with the Jordan Valley Regional Council for a period of 10 years (ends 2032) for a loan in principal amount of NIS 2,123,544. The bank holds as collateral a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all revenue that originates from assets located within its jurisdiction.
In May 2022, the bank signed a pledge agreement with the Jordan Valley Regional Council for a period of 12 years (ends 2034) for a loan in principal amount of NIS 10 million. The bank holds as collateral a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all revenue that originates from assets located within its jurisdiction.
Megilot Dead Sea Regional Council
The Megilot Dead Sea Regional Council consists of 8 settlements in the northern Dead Sea area in the occupied West Bank.
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount has 3 active pledge agreements with the Megilot Dead Sea Regional Council in the occupied West Bank.
In August 2018, Mercantile Discount signed 3 pledge agreements with the Megilot Dead Sea Regional Council for a period of 35 years (ends 2053), for three loans of NIS 1,414,114, NIS 362,647, and NIS 1,978,687. The bank holds the council’s rights to its current and future revenue and property as collateral.
Mateh Binyamin Regional Council
The Mateh Binyamin Regional Council consists of 52 settlements in the central occupied West Bank.
As of April 2026, Israel Discount, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 6 active pledge agreements with the Mateh Binyamin Regional Council in the occupied West Bank.
According to the Regional Council’s meeting protocols, in 2024 and 2025, Discount Bank provided the council with a NIS 20 million credit facility.
In August 2018, Israel Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Mateh Binyamin Regional Council for a period of 25 years (ends 2043) for a loan of NIS 130 million. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenue and property as collateral.
Shomron Regional Council
The Shomron Regional Council consists of 33 settlements in the central occupied West Bank.
As of April 2026, Israel Discount and Mercantile Discount had 8 active pledge agreements with the Shomron Regional Council in the occupied West Bank.
In February 2026, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Shomron Regional Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2043) for a loan of NIS 750,000. The bank holds a first-degree lien on all the council’s current and future revenues.
In December 2025, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Shomron Regional Council for a period of 15 years (ends 2040) for a loan of NIS 3 million. The bank holds as collateral a first-degree lien on all the council’s current and future revenues.
In July 2025, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Shomron Regional Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2042) for a loan of NIS 2 million. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In November 2024, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Shomron Regional Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2041) for a loan of NIS 9,300,000. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In July 2024, Mercantile Bank signed 2 pledge agreements (ending 2041) with the Shomron Regional Council for two loans in the amounts of NIS 1 million and NIS 3 million. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Alfei Menashe
As of April 2026, Israel Discount and Municipal Bank had 2 active pledge agreements with the Alfei Menashe Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In November 2025, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Alfei Menashe Local Council for a period of 7 years (ends 2032) for a loan of NIS 1,445,000. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In November 2020, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Alfei Menashe Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2119) for a loan of NIS 3.5 million. The bank holds as collateral the council’s rights to all revenue that originates from assets located within its jurisdiction.
In October 2020, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Alfei Menashe Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2119) for a loan of NIS 2,021,000. The bank holds as collateral the council’s rights to all revenue that originates from assets located within its jurisdiction.
Ariel
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount had 4 active pledge agreements with the Ariel Municipality in the occupied West Bank.
In December 2025, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Ariel Municipality for a period of 17 years (ends 2042) for a loan in the principal amount of NIS 4 million. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In February 2025, Mercantile signed 2 pledge agreements for a period of 17 years (ending 2042) with the Ariel Municipality for two loans in the principal amounts of NIS 2,496,802 and NIS 6,768,000. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In June 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Ariel Municipality for a period of 10 years (ends 2032) for a loan of NIS 3,877,679. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
According to the Municipality’s meeting protocols, in 2020, Mercantile Discount granted the Municipality with a NIS 3 million loan for 15 years for the construction of a country club in the settlement.
Beit El
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount had 5 active pledge agreements with the Beit El Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In April 2025, Mercantile Discount Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Beit El Local Council for a period of 13 years (ends 2038) for a loan in the principal amount of NIS 22,500,000. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In May 2022, Mercantile Discount Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Beit El Local Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2039) for a loan in the principal amount of NIS 3 million. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Beit Aryeh-Ofarim
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount had 14 active pledge agreements with the Beit Aryeh Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
According to the council’s meeting protocols, in February 2025, the council approved increasing the short-term credit limit provided to it by Mercantile Discount from NIS 3,000,000 to 9% of the council's budget for the period between January and June 2025. In November 2024, the council approved a permit to receive credit for a NIS 3,000,000 loan for 2025 from Mercantile Discount. According to the council's protocols, Mercantile Bank is the main bank through which the council requests a line of credit. In 2024, Mercantile Discount provided the council with NIS 2.5 million credit loans. In 2023, Mercantile Discount provided the council with NIS 2.5 million credit loans. Between July and December 2022, Mercantile Discount provided the council with NIS 2 million credit loans.
In December 2023, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Beit Aryeh Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2122). The bank holds a first-degree mortgage on the council’s rights to all current and future revenues, including taxes, municipal taxes, license fees, and any other amount of any kind up to the amount of the secured amounts defined in the mortgage deed.
In July 2023, Mercantile Bank signed 2 pledge agreements with the Beit Aryeh Local Council for a period of 99 years and 17 years respectively, for two loans in the principal amount of NIS 2,500,000 and NIS 300,000. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all current and future revenues.
The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all current and future revenues.
In June 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Beit Aryeh Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2121) for a loan of NIS 750,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In April 2023, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Beit Aryeh Local Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2040) for a loan in the principal amount of NIS 700,000. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In March 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Beit Aryeh Local Council for a period of 8 years (ends 2031) for a loan of NIS 2,036,549. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In January 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Beit Aryeh Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2122) for a loan of NIS 750,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In May 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Beit Aryeh Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2121) for a loan of NIS 500,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In April 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Beit Aryeh Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2121) for a loan of NIS 7,900,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In January 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Beit Aryeh Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2121) for a loan of NIS 890,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Beitar Ilit
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount had 4 active pledge agreements with the Beitar Ilit Municipality in the occupied West Bank.
In August 2024, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Beitar Ilit Municipality for a period of 45 years (ends 2069). The bank holds all rights to receive funds due in respect of the CompuSafe device (cash storage, management and deposit system) located in the municipality building, including all property rights, ownership rights, possession rights, and any other rights.
In August 2015, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Beitar Ilit Municipality for a period of 20 years (ends 2035), for which the bank holds as collateral the council’s rights to current and future funds from the Israel Police in respect of a rental agreement.
In November 2010, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Beitar Ilit Municipality for a period of 99 years (ends 2109), for which the bank holds as collateral the council’s rights for funds from Isracard Ltd., the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of the Interior and the municipality's own receipts.
Elkana
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 5 active pledge agreements with the Elkana Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In February 2024, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Elkana Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2123). The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all current and future revenues, including taxes, municipal taxes, license fees, and any other amount of any kind up to the amount of the secured amounts defined in the mortgage deed.
According to the council’s meeting protocols, in 2024, Mercantile Discount provided the council approved a NIS 1 million loan for 2024. In March 2023, the council decided to open an account at the Mercantile Discount and work with the bank in all areas of operation as well as receive banking services according to the council's needs.
In December 2022, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Elkana Local Council for a period of 10 years (ends 2032) for a loan of NIS 2,099,330. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Emanuel
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 3 active pledge agreements with the Emanuel Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In September 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Emanuel Local Council for a period of 10 years (ends 2033) for a loan of NIS 1,573,934. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In September 2019, Municipal Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Emanuel Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2118) for a loan in the principal amount of NIS 1 million. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Givat Ze'ev
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount had 2 active pledge agreements with the Givat Ze’ev Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In February 2010, Mercantile Discount signed 2 pledge agreements with the Givat Ze’ev Local Council (ending 2030), for which the bank holds as collateral all the council’s rights for current and future funds from the Ministry of Interior, and all the council’s rights for current and future funds from Israelcard Ltd. and Israel Credit Cards Ltd.
According to the council’s meeting protocols, in June 2022, the council opened a bank account at Mercantile Bank.
In February 2010, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Givat Ze’ev Local Council for a period of 20 years (ends 2030), for which the bank holds as collateral all the council’s rights for current and future funds from the Ministry of Education.
Har Adar
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount Bank had 5 active pledge agreements with the Har Adar Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In February 2026, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Har Adar Local Council for a period of 12 years (ends 2038) for a loan in the principal amount of NIS 1 million. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In April 2024, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Har Adar Local Council for a period of 12 years (ends 2036) for a loan of NIS 2,100,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In December 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Har Adar Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2122), for which the bank holds as collateral the council’s current and future revenue as collateral.
According to the council’s meeting protocols, in October 2023, Mercantile Bank provided the council with a NIS 3,265,000 loan for 10 years.
In August 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Har Adar Local Council for a period of 7 years (ends 2029) for a loan of NIS 400,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In April 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Har Adar Local Council for a period of 12 years (ends 2034) for a loan of NIS 1,610,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Karnei Shomron
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 6 active pledge agreements with the Karnei Shomron Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In 2024, the council maintained an account at Mercantile Bank.
In January 2024, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Karnei Shomron Local Council for a period of 4 years (ends 2028) for a loan of NIS 550,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In July 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Karnei Shomron Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2122) for a loan of NIS 2,825,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In June 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Karnei Shomron Local Council for a period of 11 years (ends 2033) for a loan of NIS 2,025,561. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Kdumim
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 5 active pledge agreements with the Kdumim Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
As of July 2024, Mercantile Discount has 3 active pledge agreements with the Kedumim Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In March 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Kedumim Local Council for a period of 10 years (ends 2033) for a loan of NIS 2,095,951. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In August 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Kedumim Local Council for a period of 12 years (ends 2034) for a NIS 6,200,000 loan. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral. According to the council’s meeting protocols, the loan was approved by the council in May 2022.
In April 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Kedumim Local Council for a period of 10 years (ends 2032) for a loan of NIS 1,100,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Kiryat Arba
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount had 4 active pledge agreements with the Kiryat Arba Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
According to the Local Council’s meeting protocols, in 2025, Mercantile Bank provided the council with a NIS 2 credit facility. In December 2025, the council approved a NIS 2 million credit facility with Mercantile Bank for 2026.
As of April 2025, the Council had 3 outstanding loans from Mercantile Bank in the amounts of NIS 2,000,000, NIS 800,000, and NIS 1,850,000.
In February 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Kiryat Arba Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2121) for a NIS 1,850,000 loan. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral. According to the council's meeting protocols, the loan was approved by the council in October 2021.
In 2020, Mercantile Bank provided the council with a NIS 3 million loan.
Ma'ale Adumim
As of April 2026, Israel Discount and Mercantile Bank had 8 active pledge agreements with the Ma’ale Adumim Municipality in the occupied West Bank.
According to the council’s meeting protocols, in January 2023, Discount Bank provided a NIS 4 million loan for managing the current cash flow of the municipality for 2023.
In July 2023, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Ma’ale Adumim Municipality for a period of 17 years (ends 2040) for a loan of NIS 16 million. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In June 2022, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Ma’ale Adumim Municipality for a period of 17 years (ends 2039) for a loan of NIS 11 million. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Ma'ale Efraim
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 4 active pledge agreements with the Ma’ale Efraim Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In March 2026, Discount Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Ma’ale Efraim Local Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2043) for a loan in the principal amount of NIS 4,100,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Modiin Ilit
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 7 active pledge agreements with the Modiin Ilit Municipality in the occupied West Bank.
In July 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Modiin Ilit Municipality for a period of 99 years (ends 2122) for a loan of NIS 4 million. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
According to the council’s meeting protocols, in July 2022, Mercantile Bank provided the council with a NIS 4 million loan for the renovation of roads.
In December 2018, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Modiin Ilit Municipality for a period of 12 years (ends 2030) for a loan of NIS 1,500,000. The bank holds as collateral a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all revenue that originates from assets located within its jurisdiction.
Oranit
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 6 active pledge agreements with the Oranit Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In January 2026, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Oranit Local Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2043) for a loan of NIS 4,000,000. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In March 2025, Discount Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Oranit Local Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2042) for a NIS 1,400,000 loan. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In June 2024, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Oranit Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2123) for a loan of NIS 950,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In March 2024, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Oranit Local Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2041) for a loan of NIS 800,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
According to the council’s meeting protocols, in March 2024, the council approved opening an account in Mercantile Discount for the council's ongoing activities.
In November 2023, Mercantile Bank provided the council with an NIS 8.5 million loan for 15 years. In March 2023, Mercantile Bank financed the purchase of a shelter for NIS 1,053,000 and provided a NIS 500,000 loan for the installation of solar panels on the roofs of public buildings in the settlement.
Sha’ar Shomron
According to the Sha’ar Shomron Local Council’s meeting protocols, in November 2023, the council opened an account at Mercantile Discount Bank.
Golan Regional Council
The Golan Regional Council consists of 33 settlements in the occupied Syrian Golan.
According to the Regional Council’s meeting protocols, in 2025, Discount Bank provided the council with a NIS 3 million credit facility. In December 2025, the council approved a NIS 3 million current loan account credit facility with Discount Bank for 2026.
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 7 active pledge agreements with the Golan Regional Council in the occupied Syrian Golan. The Golan Regional Council includes 33 settlements in the occupied Syrian Golan.
In June 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Golan Regional Council for a period of 14 years (ends 2037) for a loan of NIS 5 million. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
According to the council’s meeting protocols, in December 2022, the council opened an auxiliary account at Mercantile Discount for the contractor of a youth club project in the Yonatan settlement in the occupied Syrian Golan.
In July 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Golan Regional Council for a period of 12 years (ends 2034) for a loan of NIS 5 million. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In January 2018, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Golan Regional Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2117) for a loan of NIS 2 million. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Katzrin
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 5 active pledge agreements with the Katzrin Local Council in the occupied Syrian Golan.
In December 2023, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Katzrin Local Council for a period of 10 years (ends 2033) for a loan in the principal amount of NIS 2,280,656. The bank holds as collateral a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all revenue that originates from assets located within its jurisdiction.
In January 2022, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Katzrin Local Council for a period of 13 years (ends 2035) for a loan of NIS 900,000. The bank holds as collateral a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all revenue that originates from assets located within its jurisdiction.
In October 2021, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Katzrin Local Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2038) for a loan of NIS 850,000. The bank holds as collateral a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all revenue that originates from assets located within its jurisdiction.
Branches in Settlements
Discount Bank and Mercantile Discount operate branches providing banking services in settlements in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem.
Discount Bank operates branches in the settlement of Ma’ale Adumim in the occupied West Bank and the Ramat Eshkol settlement neighborhood in occupied East Jerusalem. Mercantile Discount operates branches in the settlement of Beitar Ilit in the occupied West Bank, and the Ramot settlement neighborhood in occupied East Jerusalem.
Palestinian Captive Market
Discount Bank benefits from access to the Palestinian banking market as a captive market. The bank provides banking correspondence services to banks operating in the Palestinian Authority that are dependent on the Israeli banking system. In addition, the bank operates branches in Palestinian neighborhoods in occupied East Jerusalem.
Discount Bank provides banking correspondence services to banks operating in the Palestinian Authority. Under the Paris Protocol, the Palestinian economy is subject to the Israeli currency and the Palestinian banking market's financial dealings with the rest of the world must go through the Israeli banking system. Palestinian banks are dependent on Israeli banks, which serve as correspondent banks, for fund transfers and clearing services, for which the bank requires deposit exorbitant cash collaterals and charges high commissions, and imposes restrictions on the transfer of money.
In addition, the bank operates a branch in Sultan Sulayman Street in East Jerusalem, and a Mercantile Bank branch in Nablus Road in East Jerusalem.
Financing Energy Projects on Occupied Land
Discount Bank provides financial infrastructure to renewable energy projects in the occupied West Bank, the Syrian Golan, and the Naqab region, contingent on the exploitation of occupied natural resources and the dispossession of local Palestinian residents.
Wind Farm in the Syrian Golan
Discount Bank is the financier of the ARAN wind turbine farm in the occupied Syrian Golan.
In June 2021, Discount Bank was selected by Energix Renewable Energies to finance the construction of the ARAN wind turbine farm in the northeastern Golan for an estimated amount of NIS 800 million. Following this, in June 2022, the bank signed an agreement with Energix's subsidiary, Clean Wind Energy Ltd., to provide approximately NIS 650 million for the construction of the project.
The ARAN wind farm project is planned to include 41 wind turbines on agricultural lands owned by local farmers near the Druze town of Majdal Shams and the village of Mas'ada in the Northern Syrian Golan. The wind farm will occupy about a fifth of the agricultural land that is still in the possession of Syrian residents in the occupied Golan and will deny them access to their natural resources.
The project is currently under construction, and has been postponed, among others due to a struggle by local residents and landowners. For more on the exploitation of occupied natural resources by the Israeli renewable energy sector, see Who Profits’ report Greenwashing Dispossession: The Israeli Renewable Energy Industry and the Exploitation of Occupied Natural Resources.
Solar Project in the Naqab
In February 2026, Discount Bank announced it would provide NIS 800 million in financing for a solar project planned to be the largest in Israel, to be built on an area of 1,400 dunams in the Naqab.
For more information on solar projects in the Naqab, see Who Profits’ reports: Greenwashing Dispossession: The Israeli Renewable Energy Industry and the Exploitation of Occupied Natural Resources; Plundering the Sun: The Israeli Solar Energy Industry and Palestinian Forced Displacement; and Greenwashing the Naqab: The Israeli Industry of Solar Energy: Tools of Dispossession in the Naqab.
Services to Settlements
In January 2024, Discount Bank financed the establishment of a new public transportation company operating in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem.
The company “Derech Egged”, a subsidiary of Egged Group, won the Ministry of Transportation tender to operate bus lines between Jerusalem and nearby areas, including Ramot and Givat Ze’ev settlement neighborhoods in occupied East Jerusalem and Beit Horon settlement and Ofer military camp in the occupied West Bank. Discount Bank granted Egged NIS 340 million for the purchase of new buses and additional investments to improve service, covering 90% of the investment required to establish the lines.
Holdings in Complicit Companies
Through its fully owned subsidiary, Isreal Discount Bank Registration Company Ltd., Discount Bank holds 0.069% in Hanson (Israel) Ltd. Hanson Israel, a subsidiary of Heidelberg Materials, owns and operates a quarry for the production and sale of ready-mix concrete and asphalt mixture in the occupied West Bank.
Services to the Israeli Military
Israeli Military Intelligence Campus
In August 2022, Discount Bank, together with Harel Insurance Investments and Financial Services, led the financing of the Israeli military’s Intelligence Campus project in the Naqab in the amount of NIS 4.2 billion.
The Israeli military Intelligence Campus, also known as Kiryat Hatikshuv, is located near Likit junction, adjacent to the Palestinian Bedouin village of Lakiya. The campus spreads over 2,500,000 m2 to host the military’s Intelligence operations and houses about 12,000 soldiers and officers of the Intelligence, Cyber and Technology (ICT) units, as well as the headquarters units of the Intelligence Division.
The project was part of the Israeli Ministry of Defense relocation plan of the military technology units to the Naqab region. These include the ICT Corps’ technology unit, the Air Force’s technology unit and the Southern Command headquarters.
For more, see Who Profits’ interactive map: Tools of Dispossession in the Naqab: Development and Military Projects.
Banking Services to Israeli Soldiers
Discount Bank provides special benefits to soldiers, including exemption from fees and a "Soldiers' Account" designed for soldiers up to the age of 25, which offers benefits and exemptions.
Services to the Israel Police
In 2012, Discount Bank was the main financier in the amount of NIS 725 million of the “Policity” project for the establishment of the National Police Academy campus and training facility for the Israel Police.
A publicly traded Israeli commercial bank that provides a variety of banking and financial services, including in the credit card sector, the investment sector, and portfolio management. Discount Group holds full ownership of Mercantile Discount Bank in Israel and IDBNY Bank for banking operations in the United States.
The Discount Bank Group provides financial foundation and services for settlements and settlement expansion, and benefits from financial activity in illegal Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territory. In addition, the bank finances renewable energy projects on occupied land. Furthermore, the bank benefits from access to the Palestinian banking market as a captive market that is dependent on the Israeli banking system.
Financing Construction and Infrastructure Projects in Illegal Settlements
Discount bank provides financial infrastructure and mortgages to various construction companies for the purpose of building real estate projects in settlements in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem and holds the companies’ rights to the lands and projects as collateral.
Geva Binyamin
In April 2022, the bank granted Israeli construction company Bar-Amana Buildings Construction & Development Co. a loan for the construction of 45 housing units across 10.684 dunams (10,684 square meters) of land in the settlement of Geva Binyamin (Adam) in the occupied West Bank, on lands belonging to the Palestinian village of Jaba', according to Plan No. 240/2/14/3/1. The bank holds as collateral a first-degree lien and mortgage on the real estate, including rights arising from winning the construction tender and all rights arising from insurance of the mortgaged property; and rights to all funds and financial rights that will reach the company from the Custodian of Absentee Property in the West Bank. Bar-Amana Buildings Construction & Development Co. is a construction and development company owned by the settlement movement Amana (Amana from the settlement movement of the Central Cooperative Association Gush Emunim). Amana is considered the main settlement arm of the settlers, working to establish illegal settlements and outposts in the occupied Palestinian territory. The company is based in the Ma'alot Dafna settlement neighborhood in occupied East Jerusalem.
Beitar Ilit
In 2021, Discount Bank granted Israeli construction company Shitrit Ayalon company a loan for a construction project on 4.5 dunams of land in the settlement of Beitar Ilit in the occupied West Bank. The bank holds as collateral the company’s contractual and rights to the land and project.
Ariel
In December 2021, the bank granted Israeli construction company Kedma in Ariel Ltd. a loan for a construction project of 91 housing units on 25 plots of land across 20.423 dunams on lands belonging to the Palestinian towns of Salfit and Marda in the occupied West Bank. The project is part of City Plan No. 130/8 for housing southeast of Ariel on an area of 443.294 dunams on Salfit and Marda lands as part of a housing program of the Ministry of Construction and Housing and the Israel Land Authority for buying a first apartment on preferential terms. The bank holds as collateral liens on all of the company's rights and assets in the real estate located in Ariel, including all construction rights and everything built and/or to be built on it; and rights under the real estate lease contract and the tender given to the company by the Israeli Civil Administration in the West Bank; the company's rights in the account maintained at the bank branch, in the project's receipts, including the money of purchasers and/or tenants of units and/or areas and/or parts of the real estate and/or the project, the company's rights towards suppliers and/or subcontractors and/or service providers for the project and/or in connection with it; the company's rights in its funds in the bank, and in the mortgaged assets related to the project.
Ramat Shlomo
In January 2019, the bank granted Israeli construction company Effi Capital Nadlan a loan for a construction project of 136 housing units across 7.726 dunams in the settlement neighborhood of Ramat Shlomo in occupied East Jerusalem. The project is part of City Plan No. 11085 for the expansion of the settlement neighborhood by adding 1,531 housing units, public buildings, institutions, waterworks and infrastructure across 561.448 dunams. The bank holds as collateral a first and exclusive lien without limitation in amount on all of the company's rights of any kind and type in the property, including all ownership, lease, development, and contractual rights, and all funds and financial rights that will reach the company in connection with the mortgaged property.
In October 2022, the bank granted the company an additional loan for the same project, for which the bank holds as collateral a lien on all of the company's rights and assets in the real estate, including all construction rights and everything built and/or to be built on and/or under it and everything located and/or to be located there in the future and rights under the lease agreement under which the real estate was purchased from the Israel Land Authority; the company's rights in the projct's receipts, including the money of purchasers and/or tenants of the project, suppliers and/or subcontractors, and/or service providers for the project and/or in connection with it; the company's rights in its funds in the bank, and in the mortgaged assets related to the project; and all rights under a contract for the construction of public infrastructure signed between the mortgagors and Moriah Jerusalem Development Company Ltd.
In June 2024, the bank granted the company an additional loan for the same project, for which the bank holds as collateral a first and exclusive mortgage on the lease of the land as it is today and as it will be in the future, including all building rights and all rights of any kind or type in connection with the mortgaged properties.
Old City in Jerusalem
In February 2022 and in 2020, Discount Bank granted Israeli construction company Shoham Engineering and Developmentloans against all the company’s funds and financial rights from its projects with The Society for the Reconstruction and Development of the Jewish Quarter in the Old City in occupied East Jerusalem. The bank holds as collateral the company’s contractual and actual rights in the land and the project.
Atarot Industrial Zone
In June 2016, the bank granted Israeli construction company Zalman Barashi & Bros Co. a loan in relation to a property on 3.215 dunams of land in the Atarot Industrial Zone in occupied East Jerusalem, as part of City Plan No. 1689 for the designation of land for industrial and commercial areas and new roads in the industrial zone.
The company holds as collateral a first-degree lien and mortgage on all of the company's rights arising from a lease agreement with the Israel Lands Authority and all rights relating to the insurance of the mortgaged property, and a lien and check on all funds and financial rights that will reach the company from the Israel Lands Authority.
Previously, the bank financed additional construction projects in the settlements of Alfei Menashe, Ariel and Mishor Adumim in the occupied West Bank, and the settlement neighborhoods of Gilo and Neve Ya'akov in occupied East Jerusalem. For more, see Who Profits’ report from 2017 Financing Land Grab: The Direct Involvement of Israeli Banks in the Israeli Settlement Enterprise.
Financing Settlement-Based Construction Companies
In November 2022, Mercantile Discount granted settlement-based construction and infrastructure contracting company Har Kabir Ltd., a loan, for which the bank holds as collateral a first degree permanent lien in an unlimited amount on all funds deposited and/or to be deposited in the company's account at the bank's branch in the settlement neighborhood of Ramot, and all rights arising from and/or related to it/them. The company is based in the settlement of Ariel in the occupied West Bank.
In April 2022, the bank granted settlement-based company Bar-Amana Buildings Construction & Development Co. a loan, for which the bank holds as collateral a first degree permanent lien on all funds deposited and/or to be deposited in the company's account/s at the bank's branch in the settlement neighborhood of Ramat Eshkol, and all rights arising from and/or related to it. In May 2019, the bank granted Bar Amana a loan for which the bank holds as collateral a permanent lien and a first mortgage on rights to all funds and financial rights of any kind that accrue and/or will accrue to the company from the Jerusalem Municipality pursuant to an agreement dated December 2017.
Banking Services to Settlement Local and Regional Councils
Discount Bank provides loans, credit and banking services to settlements regional and local councils in the occupied West Bank and the Syrian Golan. These loans can be used to develop infrastructure, build public facilities and provide municipal services to the residents of the settlement.
Discount Bank, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank provide loans, credit facilities and various banking services for over 200 settlements in the occupied West Bank and the Syrian Golan.
These include the Gush Etzion Regional Council (consisting of 24 settlements), the Har Hevron Regional Council (consisting of 23 settlements in the South Hebron Hills area), the Jordan Valley Regional Council (consisting of 21 settlements in the Jordan Valley area), the Megilot Dead Sea Regional Council (consisting of 8 settlements in the northern Dead Sea area), the Mateh Binyamin Regional Council (consisting of 52 settlements), the Shomron Regional Council (consisting of 33 settlements), and the settlements of Alfei Menashe, Ariel, Beit Aryeh-Ofarim, Beit El, Beitar Ilit, Elkana, Emanuel, Givat Ze'ev, Gush Etzion, Har Adar, Karnei Shomron, Kdumim, Kiryat Arba, Ma'ale Adumim, Ma'ale Efraim, Modiin Ilit, Oranit, and Sha’ar Shomron in the occupied West Bank. In addition, the bank has provided such services to the Golan Regional Council, consisting of 33 settlements in the occupied Syrian Golan, and the settlement of Katzrin in the occupied Syrian Golan.
Gush Etzion Regional Council
The Gush Etzion Regional Council consists of 24 settlements in the occupied West Bank.
As of April 2026, Israel Discount Bank, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had a total of 12 active pledge agreements with the Gush Etzion Regional Council in the occupied West Bank.
In September 2024, Discount Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Gush Etzion Regional Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2041) for a loan in the principal amount of NIS 8,000,000. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all current and future revenues.
In July 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Gush Etzion Regional Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2040) for a loan of NIS 13,500,00. The bank holds the council’s current and future revenue as collateral.
In May 2022, Israel Discount Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Gush Etzion Regional Council for a period of 45 years (ends 2067), for which the bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenue as collateral.
In February 2021, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Gush Etzion Regional Council for a period of 13 years (ends 2034) for a loan of NIS 7,900,000. The bank holds the council’s current and future revenue as collateral.
Har Hevron Regional Council
The Har Hevron Regional Council consists of 23 settlements in the South Hebron Hills area in the occupied West Bank.
As of April 2026, Israel Discount and Mercantile Discount Bank have 14 active pledge agreements with the Har Hevron Regional Council in the occupied West Bank.
According to the Regional Council’s meeting protocols, in May 2025, the council approved taking out a NIS 9.3 million loan from Mercantile Bank for 15 years, approved by the bank. In 2024 and 2025, Discount and Mercantile provided the council with a total of NIS 4,800,000 in credit facilities.
In October 2025, Discount Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Har Hevron Regional Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2042) for a loan of NIS 5,565,000. The bank holds as collateral the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues.
In July 2025, Discount Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Har Hevron Regional Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2042) for a loan of NIS 3,752,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In August 2024, Discount Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Har Hevron Regional Council for a period of 15 years (ends 2039). The bank holds as collateral the council’s rights to all revenues, excluding water and sewage revenues, arising from assets located within its jurisdiction.
According to the council’s meeting protocols, in 2024, Discount Bank provided the council with a NIS 750,000 loan.
In 2023, the bank provided the council with a NIS 2,700,000 credit facility from Mercantile Bank and a NIS 1,750,000 credit facility from Discount Bank. In September 2023, the council approved a NIS 2,241,278 loan from Mercantile Bank for 15 years. Also in 2023, the council maintained 4 bank accounts in Mercantile Bank for 4 schools located in the settlements of Susya, Atniel, and Sansana, which are under its jurisdiction.
In 2022, the bank provided the council with a NIS 1,980,000 credit facility from Mercantile Bank and a NIS 1,750,000 credit facility from Discount Bank.
Jordan Valley Regional Council
The Jordan Valley Regional Council (also known as Bik'at HaYarden Regional Council) consists of 21 settlements in the Jordan Valley area in the occupied West Bank.
As of April 2026, Israel Discount, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 2 active pledge agreements with the Jordan Valley Regional Council.
In August 2022, the bank signed a pledge agreement with the Jordan Valley Regional Council for a period of 10 years (ends 2032) for a loan in principal amount of NIS 2,123,544. The bank holds as collateral a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all revenue that originates from assets located within its jurisdiction.
In May 2022, the bank signed a pledge agreement with the Jordan Valley Regional Council for a period of 12 years (ends 2034) for a loan in principal amount of NIS 10 million. The bank holds as collateral a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all revenue that originates from assets located within its jurisdiction.
Megilot Dead Sea Regional Council
The Megilot Dead Sea Regional Council consists of 8 settlements in the northern Dead Sea area in the occupied West Bank.
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount has 3 active pledge agreements with the Megilot Dead Sea Regional Council in the occupied West Bank.
In August 2018, Mercantile Discount signed 3 pledge agreements with the Megilot Dead Sea Regional Council for a period of 35 years (ends 2053), for three loans of NIS 1,414,114, NIS 362,647, and NIS 1,978,687. The bank holds the council’s rights to its current and future revenue and property as collateral.
Mateh Binyamin Regional Council
The Mateh Binyamin Regional Council consists of 52 settlements in the central occupied West Bank.
As of April 2026, Israel Discount, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 6 active pledge agreements with the Mateh Binyamin Regional Council in the occupied West Bank.
According to the Regional Council’s meeting protocols, in 2024 and 2025, Discount Bank provided the council with a NIS 20 million credit facility.
In August 2018, Israel Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Mateh Binyamin Regional Council for a period of 25 years (ends 2043) for a loan of NIS 130 million. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenue and property as collateral.
Shomron Regional Council
The Shomron Regional Council consists of 33 settlements in the central occupied West Bank.
As of April 2026, Israel Discount and Mercantile Discount had 8 active pledge agreements with the Shomron Regional Council in the occupied West Bank.
In February 2026, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Shomron Regional Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2043) for a loan of NIS 750,000. The bank holds a first-degree lien on all the council’s current and future revenues.
In December 2025, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Shomron Regional Council for a period of 15 years (ends 2040) for a loan of NIS 3 million. The bank holds as collateral a first-degree lien on all the council’s current and future revenues.
In July 2025, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Shomron Regional Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2042) for a loan of NIS 2 million. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In November 2024, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Shomron Regional Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2041) for a loan of NIS 9,300,000. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In July 2024, Mercantile Bank signed 2 pledge agreements (ending 2041) with the Shomron Regional Council for two loans in the amounts of NIS 1 million and NIS 3 million. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Alfei Menashe
As of April 2026, Israel Discount and Municipal Bank had 2 active pledge agreements with the Alfei Menashe Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In November 2025, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Alfei Menashe Local Council for a period of 7 years (ends 2032) for a loan of NIS 1,445,000. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In November 2020, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Alfei Menashe Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2119) for a loan of NIS 3.5 million. The bank holds as collateral the council’s rights to all revenue that originates from assets located within its jurisdiction.
In October 2020, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Alfei Menashe Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2119) for a loan of NIS 2,021,000. The bank holds as collateral the council’s rights to all revenue that originates from assets located within its jurisdiction.
Ariel
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount had 4 active pledge agreements with the Ariel Municipality in the occupied West Bank.
In December 2025, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Ariel Municipality for a period of 17 years (ends 2042) for a loan in the principal amount of NIS 4 million. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In February 2025, Mercantile signed 2 pledge agreements for a period of 17 years (ending 2042) with the Ariel Municipality for two loans in the principal amounts of NIS 2,496,802 and NIS 6,768,000. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In June 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Ariel Municipality for a period of 10 years (ends 2032) for a loan of NIS 3,877,679. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
According to the Municipality’s meeting protocols, in 2020, Mercantile Discount granted the Municipality with a NIS 3 million loan for 15 years for the construction of a country club in the settlement.
Beit El
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount had 5 active pledge agreements with the Beit El Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In April 2025, Mercantile Discount Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Beit El Local Council for a period of 13 years (ends 2038) for a loan in the principal amount of NIS 22,500,000. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In May 2022, Mercantile Discount Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Beit El Local Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2039) for a loan in the principal amount of NIS 3 million. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Beit Aryeh-Ofarim
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount had 14 active pledge agreements with the Beit Aryeh Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
According to the council’s meeting protocols, in February 2025, the council approved increasing the short-term credit limit provided to it by Mercantile Discount from NIS 3,000,000 to 9% of the council's budget for the period between January and June 2025. In November 2024, the council approved a permit to receive credit for a NIS 3,000,000 loan for 2025 from Mercantile Discount. According to the council's protocols, Mercantile Bank is the main bank through which the council requests a line of credit. In 2024, Mercantile Discount provided the council with NIS 2.5 million credit loans. In 2023, Mercantile Discount provided the council with NIS 2.5 million credit loans. Between July and December 2022, Mercantile Discount provided the council with NIS 2 million credit loans.
In December 2023, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Beit Aryeh Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2122). The bank holds a first-degree mortgage on the council’s rights to all current and future revenues, including taxes, municipal taxes, license fees, and any other amount of any kind up to the amount of the secured amounts defined in the mortgage deed.
In July 2023, Mercantile Bank signed 2 pledge agreements with the Beit Aryeh Local Council for a period of 99 years and 17 years respectively, for two loans in the principal amount of NIS 2,500,000 and NIS 300,000. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all current and future revenues.
The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all current and future revenues.
In June 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Beit Aryeh Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2121) for a loan of NIS 750,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In April 2023, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Beit Aryeh Local Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2040) for a loan in the principal amount of NIS 700,000. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In March 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Beit Aryeh Local Council for a period of 8 years (ends 2031) for a loan of NIS 2,036,549. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In January 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Beit Aryeh Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2122) for a loan of NIS 750,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In May 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Beit Aryeh Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2121) for a loan of NIS 500,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In April 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Beit Aryeh Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2121) for a loan of NIS 7,900,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In January 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Beit Aryeh Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2121) for a loan of NIS 890,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Beitar Ilit
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount had 4 active pledge agreements with the Beitar Ilit Municipality in the occupied West Bank.
In August 2024, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Beitar Ilit Municipality for a period of 45 years (ends 2069). The bank holds all rights to receive funds due in respect of the CompuSafe device (cash storage, management and deposit system) located in the municipality building, including all property rights, ownership rights, possession rights, and any other rights.
In August 2015, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Beitar Ilit Municipality for a period of 20 years (ends 2035), for which the bank holds as collateral the council’s rights to current and future funds from the Israel Police in respect of a rental agreement.
In November 2010, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Beitar Ilit Municipality for a period of 99 years (ends 2109), for which the bank holds as collateral the council’s rights for funds from Isracard Ltd., the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of the Interior and the municipality's own receipts.
Elkana
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 5 active pledge agreements with the Elkana Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In February 2024, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Elkana Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2123). The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all current and future revenues, including taxes, municipal taxes, license fees, and any other amount of any kind up to the amount of the secured amounts defined in the mortgage deed.
According to the council’s meeting protocols, in 2024, Mercantile Discount provided the council approved a NIS 1 million loan for 2024. In March 2023, the council decided to open an account at the Mercantile Discount and work with the bank in all areas of operation as well as receive banking services according to the council's needs.
In December 2022, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Elkana Local Council for a period of 10 years (ends 2032) for a loan of NIS 2,099,330. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Emanuel
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 3 active pledge agreements with the Emanuel Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In September 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Emanuel Local Council for a period of 10 years (ends 2033) for a loan of NIS 1,573,934. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In September 2019, Municipal Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Emanuel Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2118) for a loan in the principal amount of NIS 1 million. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Givat Ze'ev
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount had 2 active pledge agreements with the Givat Ze’ev Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In February 2010, Mercantile Discount signed 2 pledge agreements with the Givat Ze’ev Local Council (ending 2030), for which the bank holds as collateral all the council’s rights for current and future funds from the Ministry of Interior, and all the council’s rights for current and future funds from Israelcard Ltd. and Israel Credit Cards Ltd.
According to the council’s meeting protocols, in June 2022, the council opened a bank account at Mercantile Bank.
In February 2010, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Givat Ze’ev Local Council for a period of 20 years (ends 2030), for which the bank holds as collateral all the council’s rights for current and future funds from the Ministry of Education.
Har Adar
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount Bank had 5 active pledge agreements with the Har Adar Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In February 2026, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Har Adar Local Council for a period of 12 years (ends 2038) for a loan in the principal amount of NIS 1 million. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In April 2024, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Har Adar Local Council for a period of 12 years (ends 2036) for a loan of NIS 2,100,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In December 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Har Adar Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2122), for which the bank holds as collateral the council’s current and future revenue as collateral.
According to the council’s meeting protocols, in October 2023, Mercantile Bank provided the council with a NIS 3,265,000 loan for 10 years.
In August 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Har Adar Local Council for a period of 7 years (ends 2029) for a loan of NIS 400,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In April 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Har Adar Local Council for a period of 12 years (ends 2034) for a loan of NIS 1,610,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Karnei Shomron
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 6 active pledge agreements with the Karnei Shomron Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In 2024, the council maintained an account at Mercantile Bank.
In January 2024, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Karnei Shomron Local Council for a period of 4 years (ends 2028) for a loan of NIS 550,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In July 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Karnei Shomron Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2122) for a loan of NIS 2,825,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In June 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Karnei Shomron Local Council for a period of 11 years (ends 2033) for a loan of NIS 2,025,561. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Kdumim
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 5 active pledge agreements with the Kdumim Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
As of July 2024, Mercantile Discount has 3 active pledge agreements with the Kedumim Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In March 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Kedumim Local Council for a period of 10 years (ends 2033) for a loan of NIS 2,095,951. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In August 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Kedumim Local Council for a period of 12 years (ends 2034) for a NIS 6,200,000 loan. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral. According to the council’s meeting protocols, the loan was approved by the council in May 2022.
In April 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Kedumim Local Council for a period of 10 years (ends 2032) for a loan of NIS 1,100,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Kiryat Arba
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount had 4 active pledge agreements with the Kiryat Arba Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
According to the Local Council’s meeting protocols, in 2025, Mercantile Bank provided the council with a NIS 2 credit facility. In December 2025, the council approved a NIS 2 million credit facility with Mercantile Bank for 2026.
As of April 2025, the Council had 3 outstanding loans from Mercantile Bank in the amounts of NIS 2,000,000, NIS 800,000, and NIS 1,850,000.
In February 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Kiryat Arba Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2121) for a NIS 1,850,000 loan. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral. According to the council's meeting protocols, the loan was approved by the council in October 2021.
In 2020, Mercantile Bank provided the council with a NIS 3 million loan.
Ma'ale Adumim
As of April 2026, Israel Discount and Mercantile Bank had 8 active pledge agreements with the Ma’ale Adumim Municipality in the occupied West Bank.
According to the council’s meeting protocols, in January 2023, Discount Bank provided a NIS 4 million loan for managing the current cash flow of the municipality for 2023.
In July 2023, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Ma’ale Adumim Municipality for a period of 17 years (ends 2040) for a loan of NIS 16 million. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In June 2022, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Ma’ale Adumim Municipality for a period of 17 years (ends 2039) for a loan of NIS 11 million. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Ma'ale Efraim
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 4 active pledge agreements with the Ma’ale Efraim Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In March 2026, Discount Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Ma’ale Efraim Local Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2043) for a loan in the principal amount of NIS 4,100,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Modiin Ilit
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 7 active pledge agreements with the Modiin Ilit Municipality in the occupied West Bank.
In July 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Modiin Ilit Municipality for a period of 99 years (ends 2122) for a loan of NIS 4 million. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
According to the council’s meeting protocols, in July 2022, Mercantile Bank provided the council with a NIS 4 million loan for the renovation of roads.
In December 2018, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Modiin Ilit Municipality for a period of 12 years (ends 2030) for a loan of NIS 1,500,000. The bank holds as collateral a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all revenue that originates from assets located within its jurisdiction.
Oranit
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 6 active pledge agreements with the Oranit Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In January 2026, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Oranit Local Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2043) for a loan of NIS 4,000,000. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In March 2025, Discount Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Oranit Local Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2042) for a NIS 1,400,000 loan. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In June 2024, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Oranit Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2123) for a loan of NIS 950,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In March 2024, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Oranit Local Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2041) for a loan of NIS 800,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
According to the council’s meeting protocols, in March 2024, the council approved opening an account in Mercantile Discount for the council's ongoing activities.
In November 2023, Mercantile Bank provided the council with an NIS 8.5 million loan for 15 years. In March 2023, Mercantile Bank financed the purchase of a shelter for NIS 1,053,000 and provided a NIS 500,000 loan for the installation of solar panels on the roofs of public buildings in the settlement.
Sha’ar Shomron
According to the Sha’ar Shomron Local Council’s meeting protocols, in November 2023, the council opened an account at Mercantile Discount Bank.
Golan Regional Council
The Golan Regional Council consists of 33 settlements in the occupied Syrian Golan.
According to the Regional Council’s meeting protocols, in 2025, Discount Bank provided the council with a NIS 3 million credit facility. In December 2025, the council approved a NIS 3 million current loan account credit facility with Discount Bank for 2026.
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 7 active pledge agreements with the Golan Regional Council in the occupied Syrian Golan. The Golan Regional Council includes 33 settlements in the occupied Syrian Golan.
In June 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Golan Regional Council for a period of 14 years (ends 2037) for a loan of NIS 5 million. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
According to the council’s meeting protocols, in December 2022, the council opened an auxiliary account at Mercantile Discount for the contractor of a youth club project in the Yonatan settlement in the occupied Syrian Golan.
In July 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Golan Regional Council for a period of 12 years (ends 2034) for a loan of NIS 5 million. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In January 2018, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Golan Regional Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2117) for a loan of NIS 2 million. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Katzrin
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 5 active pledge agreements with the Katzrin Local Council in the occupied Syrian Golan.
In December 2023, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Katzrin Local Council for a period of 10 years (ends 2033) for a loan in the principal amount of NIS 2,280,656. The bank holds as collateral a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all revenue that originates from assets located within its jurisdiction.
In January 2022, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Katzrin Local Council for a period of 13 years (ends 2035) for a loan of NIS 900,000. The bank holds as collateral a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all revenue that originates from assets located within its jurisdiction.
In October 2021, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Katzrin Local Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2038) for a loan of NIS 850,000. The bank holds as collateral a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all revenue that originates from assets located within its jurisdiction.
Branches in Settlements
Discount Bank and Mercantile Discount operate branches providing banking services in settlements in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem.
Discount Bank operates branches in the settlement of Ma’ale Adumim in the occupied West Bank and the Ramat Eshkol settlement neighborhood in occupied East Jerusalem. Mercantile Discount operates branches in the settlement of Beitar Ilit in the occupied West Bank, and the Ramot settlement neighborhood in occupied East Jerusalem.
Palestinian Captive Market
Discount Bank benefits from access to the Palestinian banking market as a captive market. The bank provides banking correspondence services to banks operating in the Palestinian Authority that are dependent on the Israeli banking system. In addition, the bank operates branches in Palestinian neighborhoods in occupied East Jerusalem.
Discount Bank provides banking correspondence services to banks operating in the Palestinian Authority. Under the Paris Protocol, the Palestinian economy is subject to the Israeli currency and the Palestinian banking market's financial dealings with the rest of the world must go through the Israeli banking system. Palestinian banks are dependent on Israeli banks, which serve as correspondent banks, for fund transfers and clearing services, for which the bank requires deposit exorbitant cash collaterals and charges high commissions, and imposes restrictions on the transfer of money.
In addition, the bank operates a branch in Sultan Sulayman Street in East Jerusalem, and a Mercantile Bank branch in Nablus Road in East Jerusalem.
Financing Energy Projects on Occupied Land
Discount Bank provides financial infrastructure to renewable energy projects in the occupied West Bank, the Syrian Golan, and the Naqab region, contingent on the exploitation of occupied natural resources and the dispossession of local Palestinian residents.
Wind Farm in the Syrian Golan
Discount Bank is the financier of the ARAN wind turbine farm in the occupied Syrian Golan.
In June 2021, Discount Bank was selected by Energix Renewable Energies to finance the construction of the ARAN wind turbine farm in the northeastern Golan for an estimated amount of NIS 800 million. Following this, in June 2022, the bank signed an agreement with Energix's subsidiary, Clean Wind Energy Ltd., to provide approximately NIS 650 million for the construction of the project.
The ARAN wind farm project is planned to include 41 wind turbines on agricultural lands owned by local farmers near the Druze town of Majdal Shams and the village of Mas'ada in the Northern Syrian Golan. The wind farm will occupy about a fifth of the agricultural land that is still in the possession of Syrian residents in the occupied Golan and will deny them access to their natural resources.
The project is currently under construction, and has been postponed, among others due to a struggle by local residents and landowners. For more on the exploitation of occupied natural resources by the Israeli renewable energy sector, see Who Profits’ report Greenwashing Dispossession: The Israeli Renewable Energy Industry and the Exploitation of Occupied Natural Resources.
Solar Project in the Naqab
In February 2026, Discount Bank announced it would provide NIS 800 million in financing for a solar project planned to be the largest in Israel, to be built on an area of 1,400 dunams in the Naqab.
For more information on solar projects in the Naqab, see Who Profits’ reports: Greenwashing Dispossession: The Israeli Renewable Energy Industry and the Exploitation of Occupied Natural Resources; Plundering the Sun: The Israeli Solar Energy Industry and Palestinian Forced Displacement; and Greenwashing the Naqab: The Israeli Industry of Solar Energy: Tools of Dispossession in the Naqab.
Services to Settlements
In January 2024, Discount Bank financed the establishment of a new public transportation company operating in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem.
The company “Derech Egged”, a subsidiary of Egged Group, won the Ministry of Transportation tender to operate bus lines between Jerusalem and nearby areas, including Ramot and Givat Ze’ev settlement neighborhoods in occupied East Jerusalem and Beit Horon settlement and Ofer military camp in the occupied West Bank. Discount Bank granted Egged NIS 340 million for the purchase of new buses and additional investments to improve service, covering 90% of the investment required to establish the lines.
Holdings in Complicit Companies
Through its fully owned subsidiary, Isreal Discount Bank Registration Company Ltd., Discount Bank holds 0.069% in Hanson (Israel) Ltd. Hanson Israel, a subsidiary of Heidelberg Materials, owns and operates a quarry for the production and sale of ready-mix concrete and asphalt mixture in the occupied West Bank.
Services to the Israeli Military
Israeli Military Intelligence Campus
In August 2022, Discount Bank, together with Harel Insurance Investments and Financial Services, led the financing of the Israeli military’s Intelligence Campus project in the Naqab in the amount of NIS 4.2 billion.
The Israeli military Intelligence Campus, also known as Kiryat Hatikshuv, is located near Likit junction, adjacent to the Palestinian Bedouin village of Lakiya. The campus spreads over 2,500,000 m2 to host the military’s Intelligence operations and houses about 12,000 soldiers and officers of the Intelligence, Cyber and Technology (ICT) units, as well as the headquarters units of the Intelligence Division.
The project was part of the Israeli Ministry of Defense relocation plan of the military technology units to the Naqab region. These include the ICT Corps’ technology unit, the Air Force’s technology unit and the Southern Command headquarters.
For more, see Who Profits’ interactive map: Tools of Dispossession in the Naqab: Development and Military Projects.
Banking Services to Israeli Soldiers
Discount Bank provides special benefits to soldiers, including exemption from fees and a "Soldiers' Account" designed for soldiers up to the age of 25, which offers benefits and exemptions.
Services to the Israel Police
In 2012, Discount Bank was the main financier in the amount of NIS 725 million of the “Policity” project for the establishment of the National Police Academy campus and training facility for the Israel Police.
Related Publications
Israel Discount Bank
בנק דיסקונט לישראל בע"מ
Head office: Discount 1, Rishon LeZion 7574602, Israel.
Tel.: +972-3-9439111
A publicly traded Israeli commercial bank that provides a variety of banking and financial services, including in the credit card sector, the investment sector, and portfolio management. Discount Group holds full ownership of Mercantile Discount Bank in Israel and IDBNY Bank for banking operations in the United States.
The Discount Bank Group provides financial foundation and services for settlements and settlement expansion, and benefits from financial activity in illegal Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territory. In addition, the bank finances renewable energy projects on occupied land. Furthermore, the bank benefits from access to the Palestinian banking market as a captive market that is dependent on the Israeli banking system.
Financing Construction and Infrastructure Projects in Illegal Settlements
Discount bank provides financial infrastructure and mortgages to various construction companies for the purpose of building real estate projects in settlements in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem and holds the companies’ rights to the lands and projects as collateral.
Geva Binyamin
In April 2022, the bank granted Israeli construction company Bar-Amana Buildings Construction & Development Co. a loan for the construction of 45 housing units across 10.684 dunams (10,684 square meters) of land in the settlement of Geva Binyamin (Adam) in the occupied West Bank, on lands belonging to the Palestinian village of Jaba', according to Plan No. 240/2/14/3/1. The bank holds as collateral a first-degree lien and mortgage on the real estate, including rights arising from winning the construction tender and all rights arising from insurance of the mortgaged property; and rights to all funds and financial rights that will reach the company from the Custodian of Absentee Property in the West Bank. Bar-Amana Buildings Construction & Development Co. is a construction and development company owned by the settlement movement Amana (Amana from the settlement movement of the Central Cooperative Association Gush Emunim). Amana is considered the main settlement arm of the settlers, working to establish illegal settlements and outposts in the occupied Palestinian territory. The company is based in the Ma'alot Dafna settlement neighborhood in occupied East Jerusalem.
Beitar Ilit
In 2021, Discount Bank granted Israeli construction company Shitrit Ayalon company a loan for a construction project on 4.5 dunams of land in the settlement of Beitar Ilit in the occupied West Bank. The bank holds as collateral the company’s contractual and rights to the land and project.
Ariel
In December 2021, the bank granted Israeli construction company Kedma in Ariel Ltd. a loan for a construction project of 91 housing units on 25 plots of land across 20.423 dunams on lands belonging to the Palestinian towns of Salfit and Marda in the occupied West Bank. The project is part of City Plan No. 130/8 for housing southeast of Ariel on an area of 443.294 dunams on Salfit and Marda lands as part of a housing program of the Ministry of Construction and Housing and the Israel Land Authority for buying a first apartment on preferential terms. The bank holds as collateral liens on all of the company's rights and assets in the real estate located in Ariel, including all construction rights and everything built and/or to be built on it; and rights under the real estate lease contract and the tender given to the company by the Israeli Civil Administration in the West Bank; the company's rights in the account maintained at the bank branch, in the project's receipts, including the money of purchasers and/or tenants of units and/or areas and/or parts of the real estate and/or the project, the company's rights towards suppliers and/or subcontractors and/or service providers for the project and/or in connection with it; the company's rights in its funds in the bank, and in the mortgaged assets related to the project.
Ramat Shlomo
In January 2019, the bank granted Israeli construction company Effi Capital Nadlan a loan for a construction project of 136 housing units across 7.726 dunams in the settlement neighborhood of Ramat Shlomo in occupied East Jerusalem. The project is part of City Plan No. 11085 for the expansion of the settlement neighborhood by adding 1,531 housing units, public buildings, institutions, waterworks and infrastructure across 561.448 dunams. The bank holds as collateral a first and exclusive lien without limitation in amount on all of the company's rights of any kind and type in the property, including all ownership, lease, development, and contractual rights, and all funds and financial rights that will reach the company in connection with the mortgaged property.
In October 2022, the bank granted the company an additional loan for the same project, for which the bank holds as collateral a lien on all of the company's rights and assets in the real estate, including all construction rights and everything built and/or to be built on and/or under it and everything located and/or to be located there in the future and rights under the lease agreement under which the real estate was purchased from the Israel Land Authority; the company's rights in the projct's receipts, including the money of purchasers and/or tenants of the project, suppliers and/or subcontractors, and/or service providers for the project and/or in connection with it; the company's rights in its funds in the bank, and in the mortgaged assets related to the project; and all rights under a contract for the construction of public infrastructure signed between the mortgagors and Moriah Jerusalem Development Company Ltd.
In June 2024, the bank granted the company an additional loan for the same project, for which the bank holds as collateral a first and exclusive mortgage on the lease of the land as it is today and as it will be in the future, including all building rights and all rights of any kind or type in connection with the mortgaged properties.
Old City in Jerusalem
In February 2022 and in 2020, Discount Bank granted Israeli construction company Shoham Engineering and Developmentloans against all the company’s funds and financial rights from its projects with The Society for the Reconstruction and Development of the Jewish Quarter in the Old City in occupied East Jerusalem. The bank holds as collateral the company’s contractual and actual rights in the land and the project.
Atarot Industrial Zone
In June 2016, the bank granted Israeli construction company Zalman Barashi & Bros Co. a loan in relation to a property on 3.215 dunams of land in the Atarot Industrial Zone in occupied East Jerusalem, as part of City Plan No. 1689 for the designation of land for industrial and commercial areas and new roads in the industrial zone.
The company holds as collateral a first-degree lien and mortgage on all of the company's rights arising from a lease agreement with the Israel Lands Authority and all rights relating to the insurance of the mortgaged property, and a lien and check on all funds and financial rights that will reach the company from the Israel Lands Authority.
Previously, the bank financed additional construction projects in the settlements of Alfei Menashe, Ariel and Mishor Adumim in the occupied West Bank, and the settlement neighborhoods of Gilo and Neve Ya'akov in occupied East Jerusalem. For more, see Who Profits’ report from 2017 Financing Land Grab: The Direct Involvement of Israeli Banks in the Israeli Settlement Enterprise.
Financing Settlement-Based Construction Companies
In November 2022, Mercantile Discount granted settlement-based construction and infrastructure contracting company Har Kabir Ltd., a loan, for which the bank holds as collateral a first degree permanent lien in an unlimited amount on all funds deposited and/or to be deposited in the company's account at the bank's branch in the settlement neighborhood of Ramot, and all rights arising from and/or related to it/them. The company is based in the settlement of Ariel in the occupied West Bank.
In April 2022, the bank granted settlement-based company Bar-Amana Buildings Construction & Development Co. a loan, for which the bank holds as collateral a first degree permanent lien on all funds deposited and/or to be deposited in the company's account/s at the bank's branch in the settlement neighborhood of Ramat Eshkol, and all rights arising from and/or related to it. In May 2019, the bank granted Bar Amana a loan for which the bank holds as collateral a permanent lien and a first mortgage on rights to all funds and financial rights of any kind that accrue and/or will accrue to the company from the Jerusalem Municipality pursuant to an agreement dated December 2017.
Banking Services to Settlement Local and Regional Councils
Discount Bank provides loans, credit and banking services to settlements regional and local councils in the occupied West Bank and the Syrian Golan. These loans can be used to develop infrastructure, build public facilities and provide municipal services to the residents of the settlement.
Discount Bank, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank provide loans, credit facilities and various banking services for over 200 settlements in the occupied West Bank and the Syrian Golan.
These include the Gush Etzion Regional Council (consisting of 24 settlements), the Har Hevron Regional Council (consisting of 23 settlements in the South Hebron Hills area), the Jordan Valley Regional Council (consisting of 21 settlements in the Jordan Valley area), the Megilot Dead Sea Regional Council (consisting of 8 settlements in the northern Dead Sea area), the Mateh Binyamin Regional Council (consisting of 52 settlements), the Shomron Regional Council (consisting of 33 settlements), and the settlements of Alfei Menashe, Ariel, Beit Aryeh-Ofarim, Beit El, Beitar Ilit, Elkana, Emanuel, Givat Ze'ev, Gush Etzion, Har Adar, Karnei Shomron, Kdumim, Kiryat Arba, Ma'ale Adumim, Ma'ale Efraim, Modiin Ilit, Oranit, and Sha’ar Shomron in the occupied West Bank. In addition, the bank has provided such services to the Golan Regional Council, consisting of 33 settlements in the occupied Syrian Golan, and the settlement of Katzrin in the occupied Syrian Golan.
Gush Etzion Regional Council
The Gush Etzion Regional Council consists of 24 settlements in the occupied West Bank.
As of April 2026, Israel Discount Bank, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had a total of 12 active pledge agreements with the Gush Etzion Regional Council in the occupied West Bank.
In September 2024, Discount Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Gush Etzion Regional Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2041) for a loan in the principal amount of NIS 8,000,000. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all current and future revenues.
In July 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Gush Etzion Regional Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2040) for a loan of NIS 13,500,00. The bank holds the council’s current and future revenue as collateral.
In May 2022, Israel Discount Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Gush Etzion Regional Council for a period of 45 years (ends 2067), for which the bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenue as collateral.
In February 2021, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Gush Etzion Regional Council for a period of 13 years (ends 2034) for a loan of NIS 7,900,000. The bank holds the council’s current and future revenue as collateral.
Har Hevron Regional Council
The Har Hevron Regional Council consists of 23 settlements in the South Hebron Hills area in the occupied West Bank.
As of April 2026, Israel Discount and Mercantile Discount Bank have 14 active pledge agreements with the Har Hevron Regional Council in the occupied West Bank.
According to the Regional Council’s meeting protocols, in May 2025, the council approved taking out a NIS 9.3 million loan from Mercantile Bank for 15 years, approved by the bank. In 2024 and 2025, Discount and Mercantile provided the council with a total of NIS 4,800,000 in credit facilities.
In October 2025, Discount Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Har Hevron Regional Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2042) for a loan of NIS 5,565,000. The bank holds as collateral the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues.
In July 2025, Discount Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Har Hevron Regional Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2042) for a loan of NIS 3,752,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In August 2024, Discount Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Har Hevron Regional Council for a period of 15 years (ends 2039). The bank holds as collateral the council’s rights to all revenues, excluding water and sewage revenues, arising from assets located within its jurisdiction.
According to the council’s meeting protocols, in 2024, Discount Bank provided the council with a NIS 750,000 loan.
In 2023, the bank provided the council with a NIS 2,700,000 credit facility from Mercantile Bank and a NIS 1,750,000 credit facility from Discount Bank. In September 2023, the council approved a NIS 2,241,278 loan from Mercantile Bank for 15 years. Also in 2023, the council maintained 4 bank accounts in Mercantile Bank for 4 schools located in the settlements of Susya, Atniel, and Sansana, which are under its jurisdiction.
In 2022, the bank provided the council with a NIS 1,980,000 credit facility from Mercantile Bank and a NIS 1,750,000 credit facility from Discount Bank.
Jordan Valley Regional Council
The Jordan Valley Regional Council (also known as Bik'at HaYarden Regional Council) consists of 21 settlements in the Jordan Valley area in the occupied West Bank.
As of April 2026, Israel Discount, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 2 active pledge agreements with the Jordan Valley Regional Council.
In August 2022, the bank signed a pledge agreement with the Jordan Valley Regional Council for a period of 10 years (ends 2032) for a loan in principal amount of NIS 2,123,544. The bank holds as collateral a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all revenue that originates from assets located within its jurisdiction.
In May 2022, the bank signed a pledge agreement with the Jordan Valley Regional Council for a period of 12 years (ends 2034) for a loan in principal amount of NIS 10 million. The bank holds as collateral a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all revenue that originates from assets located within its jurisdiction.
Megilot Dead Sea Regional Council
The Megilot Dead Sea Regional Council consists of 8 settlements in the northern Dead Sea area in the occupied West Bank.
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount has 3 active pledge agreements with the Megilot Dead Sea Regional Council in the occupied West Bank.
In August 2018, Mercantile Discount signed 3 pledge agreements with the Megilot Dead Sea Regional Council for a period of 35 years (ends 2053), for three loans of NIS 1,414,114, NIS 362,647, and NIS 1,978,687. The bank holds the council’s rights to its current and future revenue and property as collateral.
Mateh Binyamin Regional Council
The Mateh Binyamin Regional Council consists of 52 settlements in the central occupied West Bank.
As of April 2026, Israel Discount, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 6 active pledge agreements with the Mateh Binyamin Regional Council in the occupied West Bank.
According to the Regional Council’s meeting protocols, in 2024 and 2025, Discount Bank provided the council with a NIS 20 million credit facility.
In August 2018, Israel Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Mateh Binyamin Regional Council for a period of 25 years (ends 2043) for a loan of NIS 130 million. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenue and property as collateral.
Shomron Regional Council
The Shomron Regional Council consists of 33 settlements in the central occupied West Bank.
As of April 2026, Israel Discount and Mercantile Discount had 8 active pledge agreements with the Shomron Regional Council in the occupied West Bank.
In February 2026, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Shomron Regional Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2043) for a loan of NIS 750,000. The bank holds a first-degree lien on all the council’s current and future revenues.
In December 2025, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Shomron Regional Council for a period of 15 years (ends 2040) for a loan of NIS 3 million. The bank holds as collateral a first-degree lien on all the council’s current and future revenues.
In July 2025, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Shomron Regional Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2042) for a loan of NIS 2 million. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In November 2024, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Shomron Regional Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2041) for a loan of NIS 9,300,000. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In July 2024, Mercantile Bank signed 2 pledge agreements (ending 2041) with the Shomron Regional Council for two loans in the amounts of NIS 1 million and NIS 3 million. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Alfei Menashe
As of April 2026, Israel Discount and Municipal Bank had 2 active pledge agreements with the Alfei Menashe Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In November 2025, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Alfei Menashe Local Council for a period of 7 years (ends 2032) for a loan of NIS 1,445,000. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In November 2020, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Alfei Menashe Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2119) for a loan of NIS 3.5 million. The bank holds as collateral the council’s rights to all revenue that originates from assets located within its jurisdiction.
In October 2020, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Alfei Menashe Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2119) for a loan of NIS 2,021,000. The bank holds as collateral the council’s rights to all revenue that originates from assets located within its jurisdiction.
Ariel
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount had 4 active pledge agreements with the Ariel Municipality in the occupied West Bank.
In December 2025, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Ariel Municipality for a period of 17 years (ends 2042) for a loan in the principal amount of NIS 4 million. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In February 2025, Mercantile signed 2 pledge agreements for a period of 17 years (ending 2042) with the Ariel Municipality for two loans in the principal amounts of NIS 2,496,802 and NIS 6,768,000. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In June 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Ariel Municipality for a period of 10 years (ends 2032) for a loan of NIS 3,877,679. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
According to the Municipality’s meeting protocols, in 2020, Mercantile Discount granted the Municipality with a NIS 3 million loan for 15 years for the construction of a country club in the settlement.
Beit El
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount had 5 active pledge agreements with the Beit El Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In April 2025, Mercantile Discount Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Beit El Local Council for a period of 13 years (ends 2038) for a loan in the principal amount of NIS 22,500,000. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In May 2022, Mercantile Discount Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Beit El Local Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2039) for a loan in the principal amount of NIS 3 million. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Beit Aryeh-Ofarim
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount had 14 active pledge agreements with the Beit Aryeh Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
According to the council’s meeting protocols, in February 2025, the council approved increasing the short-term credit limit provided to it by Mercantile Discount from NIS 3,000,000 to 9% of the council's budget for the period between January and June 2025. In November 2024, the council approved a permit to receive credit for a NIS 3,000,000 loan for 2025 from Mercantile Discount. According to the council's protocols, Mercantile Bank is the main bank through which the council requests a line of credit. In 2024, Mercantile Discount provided the council with NIS 2.5 million credit loans. In 2023, Mercantile Discount provided the council with NIS 2.5 million credit loans. Between July and December 2022, Mercantile Discount provided the council with NIS 2 million credit loans.
In December 2023, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Beit Aryeh Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2122). The bank holds a first-degree mortgage on the council’s rights to all current and future revenues, including taxes, municipal taxes, license fees, and any other amount of any kind up to the amount of the secured amounts defined in the mortgage deed.
In July 2023, Mercantile Bank signed 2 pledge agreements with the Beit Aryeh Local Council for a period of 99 years and 17 years respectively, for two loans in the principal amount of NIS 2,500,000 and NIS 300,000. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all current and future revenues.
The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all current and future revenues.
In June 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Beit Aryeh Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2121) for a loan of NIS 750,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In April 2023, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Beit Aryeh Local Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2040) for a loan in the principal amount of NIS 700,000. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In March 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Beit Aryeh Local Council for a period of 8 years (ends 2031) for a loan of NIS 2,036,549. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In January 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Beit Aryeh Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2122) for a loan of NIS 750,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In May 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Beit Aryeh Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2121) for a loan of NIS 500,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In April 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Beit Aryeh Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2121) for a loan of NIS 7,900,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In January 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Beit Aryeh Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2121) for a loan of NIS 890,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Beitar Ilit
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount had 4 active pledge agreements with the Beitar Ilit Municipality in the occupied West Bank.
In August 2024, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Beitar Ilit Municipality for a period of 45 years (ends 2069). The bank holds all rights to receive funds due in respect of the CompuSafe device (cash storage, management and deposit system) located in the municipality building, including all property rights, ownership rights, possession rights, and any other rights.
In August 2015, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Beitar Ilit Municipality for a period of 20 years (ends 2035), for which the bank holds as collateral the council’s rights to current and future funds from the Israel Police in respect of a rental agreement.
In November 2010, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Beitar Ilit Municipality for a period of 99 years (ends 2109), for which the bank holds as collateral the council’s rights for funds from Isracard Ltd., the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of the Interior and the municipality's own receipts.
Elkana
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 5 active pledge agreements with the Elkana Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In February 2024, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Elkana Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2123). The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all current and future revenues, including taxes, municipal taxes, license fees, and any other amount of any kind up to the amount of the secured amounts defined in the mortgage deed.
According to the council’s meeting protocols, in 2024, Mercantile Discount provided the council approved a NIS 1 million loan for 2024. In March 2023, the council decided to open an account at the Mercantile Discount and work with the bank in all areas of operation as well as receive banking services according to the council's needs.
In December 2022, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Elkana Local Council for a period of 10 years (ends 2032) for a loan of NIS 2,099,330. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Emanuel
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 3 active pledge agreements with the Emanuel Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In September 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Emanuel Local Council for a period of 10 years (ends 2033) for a loan of NIS 1,573,934. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In September 2019, Municipal Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Emanuel Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2118) for a loan in the principal amount of NIS 1 million. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Givat Ze'ev
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount had 2 active pledge agreements with the Givat Ze’ev Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In February 2010, Mercantile Discount signed 2 pledge agreements with the Givat Ze’ev Local Council (ending 2030), for which the bank holds as collateral all the council’s rights for current and future funds from the Ministry of Interior, and all the council’s rights for current and future funds from Israelcard Ltd. and Israel Credit Cards Ltd.
According to the council’s meeting protocols, in June 2022, the council opened a bank account at Mercantile Bank.
In February 2010, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Givat Ze’ev Local Council for a period of 20 years (ends 2030), for which the bank holds as collateral all the council’s rights for current and future funds from the Ministry of Education.
Har Adar
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount Bank had 5 active pledge agreements with the Har Adar Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In February 2026, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Har Adar Local Council for a period of 12 years (ends 2038) for a loan in the principal amount of NIS 1 million. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In April 2024, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Har Adar Local Council for a period of 12 years (ends 2036) for a loan of NIS 2,100,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In December 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Har Adar Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2122), for which the bank holds as collateral the council’s current and future revenue as collateral.
According to the council’s meeting protocols, in October 2023, Mercantile Bank provided the council with a NIS 3,265,000 loan for 10 years.
In August 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Har Adar Local Council for a period of 7 years (ends 2029) for a loan of NIS 400,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In April 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Har Adar Local Council for a period of 12 years (ends 2034) for a loan of NIS 1,610,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Karnei Shomron
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 6 active pledge agreements with the Karnei Shomron Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In 2024, the council maintained an account at Mercantile Bank.
In January 2024, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Karnei Shomron Local Council for a period of 4 years (ends 2028) for a loan of NIS 550,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In July 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Karnei Shomron Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2122) for a loan of NIS 2,825,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In June 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Karnei Shomron Local Council for a period of 11 years (ends 2033) for a loan of NIS 2,025,561. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Kdumim
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 5 active pledge agreements with the Kdumim Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
As of July 2024, Mercantile Discount has 3 active pledge agreements with the Kedumim Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In March 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Kedumim Local Council for a period of 10 years (ends 2033) for a loan of NIS 2,095,951. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In August 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Kedumim Local Council for a period of 12 years (ends 2034) for a NIS 6,200,000 loan. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral. According to the council’s meeting protocols, the loan was approved by the council in May 2022.
In April 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Kedumim Local Council for a period of 10 years (ends 2032) for a loan of NIS 1,100,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Kiryat Arba
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount had 4 active pledge agreements with the Kiryat Arba Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
According to the Local Council’s meeting protocols, in 2025, Mercantile Bank provided the council with a NIS 2 credit facility. In December 2025, the council approved a NIS 2 million credit facility with Mercantile Bank for 2026.
As of April 2025, the Council had 3 outstanding loans from Mercantile Bank in the amounts of NIS 2,000,000, NIS 800,000, and NIS 1,850,000.
In February 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Kiryat Arba Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2121) for a NIS 1,850,000 loan. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral. According to the council's meeting protocols, the loan was approved by the council in October 2021.
In 2020, Mercantile Bank provided the council with a NIS 3 million loan.
Ma'ale Adumim
As of April 2026, Israel Discount and Mercantile Bank had 8 active pledge agreements with the Ma’ale Adumim Municipality in the occupied West Bank.
According to the council’s meeting protocols, in January 2023, Discount Bank provided a NIS 4 million loan for managing the current cash flow of the municipality for 2023.
In July 2023, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Ma’ale Adumim Municipality for a period of 17 years (ends 2040) for a loan of NIS 16 million. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In June 2022, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Ma’ale Adumim Municipality for a period of 17 years (ends 2039) for a loan of NIS 11 million. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Ma'ale Efraim
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 4 active pledge agreements with the Ma’ale Efraim Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In March 2026, Discount Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Ma’ale Efraim Local Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2043) for a loan in the principal amount of NIS 4,100,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Modiin Ilit
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 7 active pledge agreements with the Modiin Ilit Municipality in the occupied West Bank.
In July 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Modiin Ilit Municipality for a period of 99 years (ends 2122) for a loan of NIS 4 million. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
According to the council’s meeting protocols, in July 2022, Mercantile Bank provided the council with a NIS 4 million loan for the renovation of roads.
In December 2018, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Modiin Ilit Municipality for a period of 12 years (ends 2030) for a loan of NIS 1,500,000. The bank holds as collateral a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all revenue that originates from assets located within its jurisdiction.
Oranit
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 6 active pledge agreements with the Oranit Local Council in the occupied West Bank.
In January 2026, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Oranit Local Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2043) for a loan of NIS 4,000,000. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In March 2025, Discount Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Oranit Local Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2042) for a NIS 1,400,000 loan. The bank holds a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In June 2024, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Oranit Local Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2123) for a loan of NIS 950,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In March 2024, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Oranit Local Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2041) for a loan of NIS 800,000. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
According to the council’s meeting protocols, in March 2024, the council approved opening an account in Mercantile Discount for the council's ongoing activities.
In November 2023, Mercantile Bank provided the council with an NIS 8.5 million loan for 15 years. In March 2023, Mercantile Bank financed the purchase of a shelter for NIS 1,053,000 and provided a NIS 500,000 loan for the installation of solar panels on the roofs of public buildings in the settlement.
Sha’ar Shomron
According to the Sha’ar Shomron Local Council’s meeting protocols, in November 2023, the council opened an account at Mercantile Discount Bank.
Golan Regional Council
The Golan Regional Council consists of 33 settlements in the occupied Syrian Golan.
According to the Regional Council’s meeting protocols, in 2025, Discount Bank provided the council with a NIS 3 million credit facility. In December 2025, the council approved a NIS 3 million current loan account credit facility with Discount Bank for 2026.
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 7 active pledge agreements with the Golan Regional Council in the occupied Syrian Golan. The Golan Regional Council includes 33 settlements in the occupied Syrian Golan.
In June 2023, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Golan Regional Council for a period of 14 years (ends 2037) for a loan of NIS 5 million. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
According to the council’s meeting protocols, in December 2022, the council opened an auxiliary account at Mercantile Discount for the contractor of a youth club project in the Yonatan settlement in the occupied Syrian Golan.
In July 2022, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Golan Regional Council for a period of 12 years (ends 2034) for a loan of NIS 5 million. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
In January 2018, Mercantile Discount signed a pledge agreement with the Golan Regional Council for a period of 99 years (ends 2117) for a loan of NIS 2 million. The bank holds the council’s rights to all its current and future revenues as collateral.
Katzrin
As of April 2026, Mercantile Discount and Municipal Bank had 5 active pledge agreements with the Katzrin Local Council in the occupied Syrian Golan.
In December 2023, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Katzrin Local Council for a period of 10 years (ends 2033) for a loan in the principal amount of NIS 2,280,656. The bank holds as collateral a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all revenue that originates from assets located within its jurisdiction.
In January 2022, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Katzrin Local Council for a period of 13 years (ends 2035) for a loan of NIS 900,000. The bank holds as collateral a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all revenue that originates from assets located within its jurisdiction.
In October 2021, Mercantile Bank signed a pledge agreement with the Katzrin Local Council for a period of 17 years (ends 2038) for a loan of NIS 850,000. The bank holds as collateral a first-degree lien on the council’s rights to all revenue that originates from assets located within its jurisdiction.
Branches in Settlements
Discount Bank and Mercantile Discount operate branches providing banking services in settlements in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem.
Discount Bank operates branches in the settlement of Ma’ale Adumim in the occupied West Bank and the Ramat Eshkol settlement neighborhood in occupied East Jerusalem. Mercantile Discount operates branches in the settlement of Beitar Ilit in the occupied West Bank, and the Ramot settlement neighborhood in occupied East Jerusalem.
Palestinian Captive Market
Discount Bank benefits from access to the Palestinian banking market as a captive market. The bank provides banking correspondence services to banks operating in the Palestinian Authority that are dependent on the Israeli banking system. In addition, the bank operates branches in Palestinian neighborhoods in occupied East Jerusalem.
Discount Bank provides banking correspondence services to banks operating in the Palestinian Authority. Under the Paris Protocol, the Palestinian economy is subject to the Israeli currency and the Palestinian banking market's financial dealings with the rest of the world must go through the Israeli banking system. Palestinian banks are dependent on Israeli banks, which serve as correspondent banks, for fund transfers and clearing services, for which the bank requires deposit exorbitant cash collaterals and charges high commissions, and imposes restrictions on the transfer of money.
In addition, the bank operates a branch in Sultan Sulayman Street in East Jerusalem, and a Mercantile Bank branch in Nablus Road in East Jerusalem.
Financing Energy Projects on Occupied Land
Discount Bank provides financial infrastructure to renewable energy projects in the occupied West Bank, the Syrian Golan, and the Naqab region, contingent on the exploitation of occupied natural resources and the dispossession of local Palestinian residents.
Wind Farm in the Syrian Golan
Discount Bank is the financier of the ARAN wind turbine farm in the occupied Syrian Golan.
In June 2021, Discount Bank was selected by Energix Renewable Energies to finance the construction of the ARAN wind turbine farm in the northeastern Golan for an estimated amount of NIS 800 million. Following this, in June 2022, the bank signed an agreement with Energix's subsidiary, Clean Wind Energy Ltd., to provide approximately NIS 650 million for the construction of the project.
The ARAN wind farm project is planned to include 41 wind turbines on agricultural lands owned by local farmers near the Druze town of Majdal Shams and the village of Mas'ada in the Northern Syrian Golan. The wind farm will occupy about a fifth of the agricultural land that is still in the possession of Syrian residents in the occupied Golan and will deny them access to their natural resources.
The project is currently under construction, and has been postponed, among others due to a struggle by local residents and landowners. For more on the exploitation of occupied natural resources by the Israeli renewable energy sector, see Who Profits’ report Greenwashing Dispossession: The Israeli Renewable Energy Industry and the Exploitation of Occupied Natural Resources.
Solar Project in the Naqab
In February 2026, Discount Bank announced it would provide NIS 800 million in financing for a solar project planned to be the largest in Israel, to be built on an area of 1,400 dunams in the Naqab.
For more information on solar projects in the Naqab, see Who Profits’ reports: Greenwashing Dispossession: The Israeli Renewable Energy Industry and the Exploitation of Occupied Natural Resources; Plundering the Sun: The Israeli Solar Energy Industry and Palestinian Forced Displacement; and Greenwashing the Naqab: The Israeli Industry of Solar Energy: Tools of Dispossession in the Naqab.
Services to Settlements
In January 2024, Discount Bank financed the establishment of a new public transportation company operating in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem.
The company “Derech Egged”, a subsidiary of Egged Group, won the Ministry of Transportation tender to operate bus lines between Jerusalem and nearby areas, including Ramot and Givat Ze’ev settlement neighborhoods in occupied East Jerusalem and Beit Horon settlement and Ofer military camp in the occupied West Bank. Discount Bank granted Egged NIS 340 million for the purchase of new buses and additional investments to improve service, covering 90% of the investment required to establish the lines.
Holdings in Complicit Companies
Through its fully owned subsidiary, Isreal Discount Bank Registration Company Ltd., Discount Bank holds 0.069% in Hanson (Israel) Ltd. Hanson Israel, a subsidiary of Heidelberg Materials, owns and operates a quarry for the production and sale of ready-mix concrete and asphalt mixture in the occupied West Bank.
Services to the Israeli Military
Israeli Military Intelligence Campus
In August 2022, Discount Bank, together with Harel Insurance Investments and Financial Services, led the financing of the Israeli military’s Intelligence Campus project in the Naqab in the amount of NIS 4.2 billion.
The Israeli military Intelligence Campus, also known as Kiryat Hatikshuv, is located near Likit junction, adjacent to the Palestinian Bedouin village of Lakiya. The campus spreads over 2,500,000 m2 to host the military’s Intelligence operations and houses about 12,000 soldiers and officers of the Intelligence, Cyber and Technology (ICT) units, as well as the headquarters units of the Intelligence Division.
The project was part of the Israeli Ministry of Defense relocation plan of the military technology units to the Naqab region. These include the ICT Corps’ technology unit, the Air Force’s technology unit and the Southern Command headquarters.
For more, see Who Profits’ interactive map: Tools of Dispossession in the Naqab: Development and Military Projects.
Banking Services to Israeli Soldiers
Discount Bank provides special benefits to soldiers, including exemption from fees and a "Soldiers' Account" designed for soldiers up to the age of 25, which offers benefits and exemptions.
Services to the Israel Police
In 2012, Discount Bank was the main financier in the amount of NIS 725 million of the “Policity” project for the establishment of the National Police Academy campus and training facility for the Israel Police.
Ownership
The company is publicly traded on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol: DSCT
Major shareholders include: Phoenix Financial Ltd. (7.26%), Harel Insurance Investments & Financial Services Ltd. (7.21%), Clal Insurance Enterprise Holdings Ltd. (7.12%), Meitav Investment House Ltd. (5.83%), Y.D. More Investments Ltd. (5.39%), Menora Mivtachim Holdings Ltd. (5.21%).
Chair of the Board of Directors: Danny Yamin
CEO: Avraham Levi
Subsidiaries
US-based subsidiaries: Bancorp Discount, Inc (85.45%), Israel Discount Bank of New York (100%), IDBNY Realty (Delaware), Inc (100%), IDB Realty LLC (100%)
Israeli subsidiaries: Mercantile Discount Bank (100%), Discount Capital Ltd. (100%), Diners Club Israel Ltd. (100%), C. A. L (Financing) Ltd. (100%), Paybox Ltd. (100%), Israel Credit Cards Ltd. (71.83%), Greenlend Financial Solutions Ltd. (30%)
Partners
First International Bank of Israel, Energix Renewable Energies, Meshek Energy, Heidelberg Materials, Hanson (Israel)
* This section refers to the company's general business partners
Company Response
Settlements
Alfei Menashe | Ariel | Beit Aryeh (Ofarim) | Beit El | Beitar Illit | Elkana | Emanuel (Immanuel) | Geva Binyamin (Adam) | Givat Ze’ev | Gush Etzion | Har Adar | Har Hevron | Jordan Valley | Karnei Shomron | Katzrin | Kdumim | Kiryat Arba | Ma'ale Adumim | Ma'ale Efraim | Mateh Binyamin | Modi'in Illit | Old City | Oranit | Ramat Shlomo | Sha'ar Shomron