Istanbul – KFC, one of the world’s most famous fast-food chains, has closed all 537 of its outlets across Turkey after its local franchise operator went bankrupt. The shutdown comes as public anger grows over the unrelenting violence in Gaza.
Why Did KFC Turkey Collapse?
The American fast-food chain’s Turkish franchise buckled under heavy debt, worsened by a massive drop in customer demand. This decline is linked to widespread boycotts of Western brands in Muslim-majority countries protesting Israel’s military actions in Gaza.
The Gaza Conflict’s Global Impact
Since October 2023, the war in Gaza has claimed over 50,000 Palestinian lives, left tens of thousands wounded, and displaced most of the population. The devastation has sparked global outrage, reigniting protests against companies like KFC, which activists accuse of supporting Israel’s policies.
Other Brands Feeling the Heat
- McDonald’s, Starbucks, and Pepsi have also faced boycott campaigns.
- Pro-Palestine movements have successfully pressured consumers to avoid brands seen as complicit with Israel’s government.
Protests Hit KFC in Pakistan
Anti-Western sentiment isn’t limited to Turkey—KFC branches in Karachi, Lahore, and other Pakistani cities have also been targeted. Protesters have:
Vandalized stores
Disrupted traffic with demonstrations
Called for a complete boycott
PSL 2025 Faces Backlash Too
Even the Pakistan Super League (PSL 2025) hasn’t escaped scrutiny. As its 10th season kicks off, activists are criticizing the league’s partnerships with KFC and Pepsi—both currently at the center of boycott calls.
- KFC was announced as a PSL partner in February 2024.
- Pepsi continues to sponsor both the tournament and the Karachi Kings.
Social media platforms like Facebook, X (Twitter), and Instagram are flooded with posts demanding a PSL boycott, showing how deeply the Gaza conflict is influencing consumer behavior worldwide.
