A wave of boycotts is sweeping across McDonald’s, the renowned fast-food behemoth, following a controversial announcement by its Israeli branch. The franchise revealed on social media that it has been offering complimentary meals to Israeli military personnel during the ongoing strife with Hamas.
McDonald’s Israel took to Instagram to announce that it has been distributing “numerous meals” throughout Israel in recent days. The company disclosed that it had provided 4,000 meals to hospitals and military units and planned to distribute thousands more daily to soldiers stationed in the field and drafting areas. This initiative was in addition to a 50% discount offered to soldiers and security forces who patronize their branches.
The announcement was met with widespread disapproval on social media, with many users advocating for a boycott of McDonald’s. Detractors argue that it is inappropriate to support corporations involved in conflicts, particularly when innocent lives are at stake. The hashtag #BoycottMcDonalds began trending on social media platforms as users expressed their objections.
The tension between Israel and Hamas intensified after a surprise attack by Hamas on Israel last weekend, leading to nearly 3,000 casualties on both sides. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared “war” after Hamas launched hundreds of rockets and infiltrated several Israeli cities, causing numerous deaths and abductions. Airstrikes are ongoing in the Gaza Strip, and an Israeli invasion of the region is expected.
McDonald’s has yet to issue an official response regarding the calls for boycott. The controversy continues to escalate as more individuals join the boycott movement.
