Bank Hapoalim strike returns as branches close at noon
In a renewed pushback against a sweeping cost-cutting plan, employees at Israel’s Bank Hapoalim are taking to the picket lines again. The union representing bank workers announced that, starting from 12:00 and continuing through the end of the workday, 8,000 staff will participate in strikes that will shut down all branches across the country, including advisory centers and the main call center. In today’s action, 180 branches from the north to the south will be affected, emphasizing the breadth of the dispute.
The core dispute: job cuts and restructuring
The union dispute centers on a management plan to reduce the bank’s headcount by about 770 positions through attrition avoidance and role consolidation, along with forced relocation of hundreds of workers. Union officials say these changes will depress take-home pay, erode professional advancement, and blur career paths at a time when many employees are already handling higher workloads.
Why workers are mobilizing
The Bank Workers’ Organization argues that management has shown a pattern of ignoring employee demands and maintaining a hardline stance during negotiations. The union notes that it engaged in talks for months, but says management has dragged its feet in presenting satisfactory proposals. The protests come even as the bank reports substantial profits: about 9 billion shekels in 2024, with expectations of even stronger results in 2025.
What the cuts mean in practice
Besides eliminating or consolidating roles, the plan would relocate hundreds of staff members, potentially affecting their wages and career prospects. Critics warn that the changes could increase workloads for remaining employees and degrade service quality for customers, especially at branches and across the bank’s call center and advisory services. The union contends that the workforce is already stretched by broader structural changes implemented over recent years, and the latest move would intensify strain on daily operations.
Impact on customers and operations
With branches and support centers sidelined by the walkout, many customers may encounter longer wait times and reduced accessibility to in-person banking services. Although some routine transactions can be handled digitally, the disruption could still create noticeable frictions for clients who rely on in-branch assistance and personalized financial guidance.
What happens next
Negotiations between the union and Bank Hapoalim’s management are ongoing, but the current strike highlights a fragile bargaining environment. Industry observers will watch closely for signs of compromise or further escalation, including possible mediations or renewed warning actions. The bank has emphasized its profitability and future outlook, while workers insist on a reassessment of the plan’s impact on employment quality and career opportunities.
Takeaway for readers
The Bank Hapoalim dispute underscores a broader tension in the banking sector: large-scale efficiency drives must be weighed against employee protections and service reliability. As negotiations proceed, customers should plan for potential service interruptions and consider alternative channels where possible, while staying informed about any updates from the union and bank management.
