Supporters of Islami Jamiat-e-Talaba (IJT), a student wing of Pakistan’s Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) party stage a pro-Palestinian and anti-Israel protest outside a Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) restaurant calling for boycott of Israeli products on the outskirts of Islamabad on May 7, 2024. (Farooq Naeem/AFP)
| Published April 18, 2025
In recent weeks, Pakistan has experienced a surge in anti-Israel protests, with over 170 individuals arrested following attacks on KFC outlets across major cities such as Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. These demonstrations, fueled by opposition to Israel’s military actions in Gaza and perceived U.S. support, have led to at least 11 incidents of vandalism and violence against the American fast-food chain.
The unrest has resulted in the tragic death of a KFC employee near Lahore, though authorities are still investigating the motive behind the shooting. In response to the escalating situation, police have increased security measures at numerous KFC locations, particularly in Lahore, where multiple attacks were either carried out or thwarted.
While groups like Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) have publicly called for boycotts of Israeli products, they have denied organizing or endorsing the violent protests targeting KFC. Nevertheless, some individuals affiliated with such groups have been among those arrested.
These events are part of a broader pattern of protests and boycotts in Muslim-majority countries against Western brands perceived as supportive of Israel. Other U.S. companies, including Pizza Hut, Coca-Cola, and PepsiCo, have also faced backlash and declining market shares in Pakistan amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Religious leaders in Pakistan have advocated for peaceful demonstrations and boycotts, urging citizens to express their solidarity with Palestinians without resorting to violence. The situation remains tense as authorities continue to monitor and address the unrest.
Here are the pros and cons of the anti-Israel protests at KFC outlets across Pakistan:
✅ Pros
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Expression of Public Sentiment:
Demonstrations reflect the deep concern and solidarity many Pakistanis feel for Palestinians amid the Gaza conflict. -
Peaceful Boycott Movement Potential:
Boycotting international brands perceived as pro-Israel can be a non-violent method of protest if done lawfully and respectfully. -
Political Awareness and Mobilization:
The protests have raised awareness and stirred political engagement among youth and religious groups on global issues. -
Religious and Cultural Solidarity:
Reinforces a sense of unity among Muslim-majority nations and communities in support of Palestinian causes.
❌ Cons
-
Violence and Vandalism:
Attacking KFC branches has led to deaths, injuries, and destruction of private property—undermining the legitimacy of the cause. -
Legal Consequences:
Over 170 arrests highlight the crackdown on violent protests and the risk for participants of facing criminal charges. -
Damage to Local Economy and Jobs:
Many KFC outlets are locally franchised; vandalizing them affects Pakistani workers and business owners more than foreign entities. -
International Image:
Violent protests may harm Pakistan’s global reputation, portraying unrest and instability to international investors and observers. -
Risk of Misplaced Targets:
American fast-food chains like KFC may not have any direct involvement with Israeli politics, making them inappropriate targets.
Conclusion:
The wave of anti-Israel protests targeting KFC outlets in Pakistan reflects the deep emotional and political response to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. While the intent to stand in solidarity with Palestinians is widely supported across various segments of society, the violence and destruction associated with some protests have overshadowed that message. The arrests and tragic loss of life underscore the urgent need to channel public anger into peaceful, constructive activism. As the situation unfolds, Pakistan faces the challenge of balancing public expression with law and order—ensuring that support for international causes does not come at the cost of domestic stability and innocent lives.
SOURCES: THE TIMES OF ISRAEL – More than 170 arrested for anti-Israel protests at KFC branches across Pakistan
THE JERUSALEM POST – Over 170 arrested for attacks on Pakistan KFC outlets in Gaza war protests
DAILY MAIL ONLINE – Over 170 arrested for attacks on Pakistan KFC outlets in Gaza war protests
YNET NEWS – Over 170 arrested for attacks on Pakistan KFC outlets in Gaza war protests
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