At least 20 US fast-food outlets attacked in Pakistan during anti-Israel protests; KFC employee killed

Karachi: The Pakistan government said on Saturday that at least 20 US fast-food outlets, including KFC, were attacked across the country during anti-Israel protests this month. One KFC employee was killed and around 160 suspects have been arrested in connection with the incidents.

Most of the attacks were reportedly carried out by activists of the radical Islamist group Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP). However, during a press conference, Minister of State for Interior Tallal Chaudhry appeared to absolve TLP of direct involvement, claiming that all political and religio-political parties had distanced themselves from the violence.

“Some party workers may have been involved in their personal capacity, but no political party is linked to these crimes,” Chaudhry said, adding, “Whoever attacks such outlets will be dealt with sternly.”

Wazir, another official, confirmed that around 20 attacks had taken place targeting KFC locations and that the arrested suspects had confessed to the crimes and expressed regret in video statements.

Highlighting the economic impact, the minister said the owner of KFC in Pakistan is a Muslim Pakistani and that the company’s operations—including purchasing and profits—are rooted within the country. He said that KFC has invested over USD 100 million in Pakistan and pays full taxes, urging people not to target such businesses.

“The government will protect the life and property of all investors—Pakistani or foreign,” Chaudhry said.