Anti-Israel protests have erupted across Europe and beyond, with global brands like McDonald’s and Starbucks becoming prime targets for vandalism and boycotts. In Barcelona, violent riots followed the announcement of the Gaza ceasefire, leaving heavy property damage and at least 15 arrests. Demonstrators accused the U.S. and Israel of “genocide,” chanting for the destruction of the Jewish state and attacking American-owned franchises as symbols of Western capitalism. Both McDonald’s and Starbucks have been in the crosshairs of the Boycott, Divest, and Sanction (BDS) movement, which has intensified since Hamas’ October 7th attack on Israel. These corporations, representing American culture and global reach, have become strategic focal points for activists seeking maximum visibility and outrage.

McDonald’s faced backlash for offering discounts to Israeli soldiers — a decision made by local franchise owners, not corporate leadership — while Starbucks drew fury after its workers’ union posted “Solidarity with Palestine” using the company’s logo. Starbucks later sued the union for trademark misuse, but the damage was done: BDS groups began targeting its stores worldwide. Despite corporate neutrality, both companies have experienced boycotts, vandalism, and declining sales, especially in Muslim-majority nations. Analysts note that these global chains are attacked not merely for their business ties but because they embody the values of the West — capitalism, freedom, and democracy — which the anti-Israel movement sees as intertwined with Zionism itself.

SOURCE: All Israel News