McDonald's faces criticism for offering complimentary meals to Israeli soldiers
PTC News Desk: McDonald's has found itself embroiled in controversy following its decision to offer complimentary meals to Israeli soldiers amid the ongoing conflict with Hamas. The fast-food giant's move has sparked protests in Lebanon, with demonstrations occurring on October 13.
McDonald's Israel initially announced on Instagram that they were donating thousands of free meals to both hospitals and the Israel Defence Forces (IDF). In a post, McDonald's Israel stated, "Update: Yesterday, we donated 4,000 meals to hospitals and military units. We intend to donate thousands of meals daily to soldiers in the field and draft areas, in addition to the discounts provided to soldiers visiting our restaurants. We have opened five restaurants exclusively for this purpose," as reported by Newsweek.
Statement from McDonald’s Oman pic.twitter.com/SzKz7lhmgk — McDonald’s Oman (@Mcdonaldsoman) October 14, 2023
This decision faced criticism from several users who believed that providing free meals to the IDF was inconsistent with their principles. One user expressed, "McDonald's providing free meals to the IDF, (the military forces of Israel). We should stand by our principles and take actions that align with our beliefs. Let's boycott McDonald's because supporting companies involved in conflicts is wrong, especially when it comes to the loss of innocent lives." Another user commented, "If McDonald's is giving free meals to the Israel Defense Force and not to those affected in GAZA, then I think all Muslims around the GLOBE should boycott McDonald's."
Conversely, some users praised McDonald's Israel for their support of Israel, with one person commending them with a simple, "Well done McDonald's Israel." It's worth noting that McDonald's Israel's official Instagram account was made private following this controversy.
Statement from Al Maousherji Catering Company - McDonald’s Kuwait pic.twitter.com/sQyiwgeLjI — McDonalds Kuwait (@McDonaldsKuwait) October 14, 2023
As a consequence of McDonald's move to provide free food to Israeli troops, protests erupted in Lebanon, where a McDonald's branch in Sidon, a city in South Lebanon, was targeted by Palestinian groups. However, no injuries were reported in the attack. McDonald's Lebanon issued a statement emphasizing that their position differed from other franchisees and did not reflect their views or actions. They affirmed their commitment to their nation and its people with respect and solidarity.
McDonald's Oman expressed their support for Gaza on social media, pledging $100,000 toward relief efforts for the people of Gaza. Meanwhile, McDonald's UAE announced a donation of AED 1 million to Emirates Red Crescent for their "Tarahum for Gaza" campaign. The fast-food chain in Turkey also promised humanitarian aid of $1 million for the people of Gaza affected by the conflict.
McDonald's Kuwait, represented by the Maousherji Catering Company, voiced support for Palestine and Gaza, asserting their Arab and Kuwaiti identity. They clarified that the decision in Israel was an individual action and not a global decision approved by other local operators. McDonald's Kuwait pledged to donate $250,000 to the Kuwait Red Crescent Society to aid in relief efforts in Gaza.
As per AFP, the ongoing conflict has resulted in significant casualties on both sides, with at least 2,215 Palestinians, including 724 children, killed in Gaza. Israeli officials have reported the deaths of at least 1,300 people in Israel, with a majority of them occurring in a recent Hamas attack.
The situation remains deeply complex and continues to provoke strong emotions and responses from various quarters.
- With inputs from agencies
