Fri Apr 18 08:03:33 UTC 2025: ## Pakistan Sees Wave of Anti-US Protests Targeting KFC Outlets
**KARACHI, PAKISTAN** – At least 11 KFC outlets across Pakistan have been attacked in a series of mob incidents fueled by anti-American sentiment and opposition to Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza. Police have arrested at least 178 people in connection with the attacks, which involved vandalism and, in one case, a fatal shooting of a KFC employee in Lahore.
The attacks, occurring in major cities including Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, have seen protesters armed with sticks targeting the American fast-food chain, long viewed as a symbol of the U.S. in Pakistan. While the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) Islamist party has called for a boycott of Israeli goods, it denies organizing the protests. A TLP spokesman stated that any involvement by party members would be considered a personal act.
Lahore police have increased security at KFC locations following two attacks and the prevention of five others. Senior police officer Faisal Kamran confirmed the arrests of 11 individuals, including one TLP member. Investigations are underway to determine the extent of involvement from various groups.
The violence comes amidst broader anti-Western sentiment in Pakistan and other Muslim-majority nations stemming from the conflict in Gaza. The war, triggered by a Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023, has resulted in tens of thousands of Palestinian casualties and a significant humanitarian crisis. This sentiment has impacted other U.S. brands; Yum Brands, KFC’s parent company, reported similar boycotts impacting its Pizza Hut brand. Market share data reveals a decline in sales for Coca-Cola and PepsiCo in Pakistan as consumers shift to local brands. While religious leaders have called for boycotts, they urged for peaceful demonstrations. The ongoing situation highlights the complex interplay between geopolitical tensions and consumer behaviour in Pakistan.
First Piper 