A gathering of Pro-Palestinian individuals reportedly raided a KFC outlet overnight in Mirpur city of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), allegedly referring to it as an Israeli establishment. The crowd, alleging the presence of Israeli products at KFC, engaged in stone-throwing and clashed with local law enforcement.
Reports indicate that during the attack on KFC, the individuals shouted anti-Israel and pro-Palestine slogans. Several demonstrators were purportedly injured due to police gunfire, and numerous vehicles and shops were set on fire.
Evidently, the incident is linked to the ongoing ‘Boycott Israel’ campaign in Pakistan. Police have purportedly detained over 50 protesters engaged in the violence, with ongoing efforts to apprehend more suspects underway through raids.
Numerous videos depicting the violent assault on KFC are circulating on various social media platforms. Netizens in Pakistan appear divided over the incident, with some social media users applauding the act, while others voice concerns.
Taking to X, a man named Momin Sheikh wrote, “A KFC branch set on fire in Mirpur. A restaurant that’s not even on the BDS list. Great job”.
A KFC branch set on fire in Mirpur. A restaurant that’s not even on the BDS list. Great job 👏🏽🙄pic.twitter.com/yTtLwws6HO
— Momin Sheikh (@shaykshack) March 30, 2024
Another user on X, Awais also commented on the issue and said, “Protestors set KFC on fire in Mirpur. These acts are not good for country. Peaceful protests must be encouraged #Gaza #Palestine #kfc”
Protestors set KFC on fire in Mirpur. These acts are not good for country. Peaceful protests must be encouraged pic.twitter.com/dX92Za1gtg#Gaza #Palestine #kfc
— Awais💙 (@Awais7866) March 29, 2024
Since the onset of the Israel-Hamas conflict, numerous fundamentalists in several Muslim-majority nations, Pakistan included, have been advocating for the boycott of Israeli goods. However, in Pakistan, several brands such as Dominos, McDonald’s, Coca-Cola, and PepsiCo find themselves targeted in the crosshairs.