One Dead, Dozens Arrested Amid Anti-KFC Protests in Pakistan Over Gaza Conflict

Islamabad, April 19, 2025 — Pakistan has been rocked by a wave of violent demonstrations targeting KFC outlets, resulting in one fatality and multiple arrests. The unrest, driven by public outrage over the Gaza conflict, has seen protesters storming the fast-food chain’s locations, accusing it of symbolic ties to U.S. and Israeli interests.

Over the past week, at least 20 KFC branches faced attacks as crowds demanded a boycott of Western brands. The protests, initially organized online, quickly spiraled into chaos, with vandalism, arson, and clashes with law enforcement reported in major cities, including Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad.

Protests Turn Deadly

In Karachi, the situation turned fatal when a 32-year-old protester, Waqar Ahmed, was struck by a rubber bullet during a confrontation with police. His death intensified the demonstrations, with enraged crowds setting fire to two KFC locations in the city.

"My brother only wanted justice for Gaza," said Ali Ahmed, Waqar’s grieving sibling. "He wasn’t violent—just heartbroken."

Authorities confirmed widespread damage, with mobs smashing windows, overturning furniture, and threatening employees. Security forces have since stepped up patrols near foreign franchises to prevent further escalation.

Government and Corporate Response

Pakistan’s Interior Ministry condemned the violence while acknowledging public anger over Gaza. State Minister Talal Chaudhry urged restraint, stating, "Destruction is not the answer. We must protest peacefully."

KFC Pakistan issued a statement distancing itself from geopolitical conflicts, emphasizing its local ownership and workforce. "We are a Pakistani-run business supporting Pakistani families," the company said. "We share the grief over Gaza but reject violence."

Social Media’s Role

Online campaigns like #BoycottKFC and #GazaUnderAttack have fueled the protests, though some posts spread unverified claims linking corporations to Israeli funding. Digital rights advocates warn that misinformation is inflaming tensions.

"Passion for Palestine is justified, but mob justice is dangerous," said activist Nighat Dad.

The anti-KFC protests have now begun to spill over into demonstrations against other American brands, including McDonald’s, Pizza Hut, and Starbucks, with social media users accusing them of complicity in the Gaza conflict. In Lahore, a McDonald’s outlet was vandalized late Friday night, while in Peshawar, protesters staged a sit-in outside a Coca-Cola distribution center, demanding a nationwide boycott.

Business owners and employees of these franchises have expressed fear and frustration, with many workers reporting harassment. "We are just trying to earn a living," said a KFC employee in Islamabad who wished to remain anonymous. "We have nothing to do with politics or war."

Political Reactions and Diplomatic Fallout

The protests have drawn mixed reactions from political leaders. Opposition figures have capitalized on the public anger, calling for stricter government action against companies with alleged ties to Israel. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s foreign ministry has been cautious, balancing domestic outrage with the need to maintain economic and diplomatic relations with the U.S.

Analysts warn that prolonged unrest could deter foreign investment, further straining Pakistan’s struggling economy. "Mob violence and forced shutdowns send a dangerous signal to international businesses," said economist Hina Shahid. "This could have long-term repercussions beyond fast food."

Calls for Calm and Alternative Activism

Religious scholars and civil society groups have intensified calls for peaceful protest, urging citizens to donate to Palestinian aid organizations rather than destroy property. "Breaking windows won’t help Gaza, but charity and advocacy will," said Imam Khalid Rahman during a Friday sermon in Karachi.

As tensions persist, the government faces mounting pressure to address both public anger and economic stability—leaving Pakistan at a crossroads between activism and unrest.

What’s Next?

With tempers still flaring, officials fear more unrest. Religious leaders and civil groups are calling for peaceful alternatives, such as fundraising for Gaza, while police remain on high alert.

As Pakistan grapples with this turmoil, the world watches—an outcry over Gaza now echoing through shattered storefronts and a nation’s fraying patience.