Bangladesh Protests Turn Violent, Targeting Major Brands

Recent pro-Palestinian demonstrations in Bangladesh have escalated into attacks on international brands, including Bata, Pizza Hut, and KFC, fueled by claims of Israeli affiliation. What began as expressions of solidarity with Gaza have devolved into vandalism and property damage across multiple cities, prompting a police crackdown and raising concerns about political instability.

Over the past two weeks, as the conflict in Gaza intensified, protests swelled in cities like Dhaka, Bogra, Sylhet, and Cox’s Bazar. While initially peaceful, these demonstrations quickly turned violent, with protestors specifically targeting outlets perceived to have links to Israel – a claim strongly refuted by Bata. Reports indicate a Bata showroom in Bogra had its glass walls smashed, while KFC locations in Sylhet and Chittagong suffered damage to products, signage, and windows. In Cox’s Bazar, protestors hurled stones at Pizza Hut and KFC establishments. Social media is replete with videos documenting the destruction.

Bata issued a statement emphasizing its status as a privately-owned Czech company with no political ties to the conflict, expressing regret over the unwarranted vandalism. Authorities, led by Inspector General of Police Baharul Alam, are actively reviewing footage to identify and arrest those responsible for the damage. Increased security measures have also been implemented around the US Embassy in Dhaka, where protestors voiced anti-American sentiments, including targeting US President Donald Trump with slogans.

The unrest has exacerbated existing political tensions within Bangladesh. While the caretaker government, led by Dr. Muhammad Yunus, condemned the violence, the opposition Awami League, headed by ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has accused the government of allowing extremism to take root.

This situation highlights a dangerous trend of misplaced anger and the potential for international boycotts to spill over into destructive acts targeting businesses with no direct involvement in the geopolitical conflict. While demonstrating support for a cause is a fundamental right, the targeting of civilian businesses based on unsubstantiated claims is unacceptable and counterproductive. It’s crucial for protest organizers to ensure demonstrations remain peaceful and focused on legitimate targets, and for authorities to protect businesses and uphold the rule of law. The escalation of violence risks further destabilizing Bangladesh and damaging its economic prospects, while doing nothing to alleviate the suffering in Gaza.