Violent turn in Bangladesh's pro-Palestine protests, KFC and Pizza Hut targeted

Anti-Israel demonstrations across Bangladesh escalated into violence on Monday, with protestors attacking businesses perceived to have ties to Israel.

Popular brands like KFC, Pizza Hut, and Bata were targeted in several cities, sparking widespread concern and condemnation from political leaders and authorities.

The protests, initially organised to denounce Israeli actions in Gaza, took a destructive turn in areas such as Bogra, Sylhet, and Cox’s Bazar. A Bata showroom in Bogra and KFC outlets in Sylhet and Cox’s Bazar were vandalised, with demonstrators pelting stones and damaging property. A Pizza Hut outlet also came under attack.

The unrest followed nationwide demonstrations involving a wide cross-section of society — from student groups and cultural bodies to political and religious organisations. Many protestors waved Palestinian flags and shouted pro-Palestine and anti-American slogans, with some directing criticism toward former U.S. President Donald Trump. Security was notably tightened around the U.S. Embassy in Dhaka.

In response to the violence, Bangladesh's police launched a large-scale operation. At least 49 people have been arrested so far, and authorities are using video footage to identify more suspects. Inspector General of Police Baharul Alam warned that any criminal activity disguised as protest would face strict legal action.

"The right to protest does not include the right to destroy," a senior police official said, confirming that multiple cases had already been filed and more were underway.

The incidents have sparked political tensions between the interim government and opposition leaders. Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus condemned the violence, emphasising that swift action is being taken. “These attacks and acts of vandalism are an affront to public safety and the rule of law,” Yunus said, confirming that police raids are ongoing and more arrests are expected.

However, the opposition Awami League, led by ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, voiced grave concerns over what it called a rise in extremism. In a strongly worded statement, the party warned, “This is more than a political crisis. This is a national emergency. Bangladesh risks becoming the next Afghanistan if the world remains silent.”

The Awami League demanded the resignation of Yunus and called for the immediate restoration of democratic processes. “The rule of law must return. Democracy must be revived. Free and fair elections are the only way forward,” the statement read.

The violence has also rattled the country’s business and investment climate. The Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) issued a statement condemning the attacks and warned of long-term damage to the economy.

“These businesses were more than just franchises — they were employers and contributors to the economy,” said BIDA Chairman Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun. “Vandalizing such establishments hurts local and foreign investors alike and threatens the livelihoods of countless workers.”