Widespread pro-Palestinian protests erupted across Bangladesh on Monday, as demonstrators targeted businesses perceived to have links with Israel, including Bata, KFC, and Pizza Hut.
The unrest spanned multiple districts such as Bogra, Sylhet, Cox’s Bazar, and Chittagong, with protestors denouncing Israeli military actions in Gaza and urging a boycott of Israeli products.
In Bogra, large crowds—primarily students—gathered in the city center to express outrage over the violence in Gaza.
Protest Rally Turns Violent
The protest began with a march from several educational institutions and culminated at Satmatha, the city’s central intersection. There, demonstrators stormed a Bata outlet, shattering its glass facade.
Despite the aggression, employees managed to lock the premises and prevent further damage.
Protesters carried banners, placards, and festoons, chanting slogans condemning what they described as genocide in Palestine. The demonstration brought traffic to a standstill in several parts of the city.
Students from institutions including Govt Azizul Haque College took part in the rally under the collective banner of “General Students, Bogra,” voicing solidarity with Palestinians and denouncing Israeli policies.
In Sylhet, protestors attacked a KFC outlet in the Mirboxtula area, reportedly smashing bottles of soft drinks associated with Israeli companies, according to Bangla Tribune.
The restaurant was promptly closed, and police intervened to restore calm.
Israel-Linked Businesses Targeted
Speakers at the rallies called on both the Bangladeshi government and the United Nations to take firm action in implementing a boycott of Israeli-linked goods.
They also condemned the ongoing attacks on Palestinian civilians, including children and women, urging global solidarity against the violence.
In Cox’s Bazar, demonstrators rallied in the Kalatali area, where they threw stones at KFC and Pizza Hut signboards, shattering glass windows.
Videos circulating on social media showed large crowds involved in the vandalism, with witnesses reporting that several nearby restaurants were also affected.
Chittagong witnessed similar unrest, where protestors damaged two restaurants — KFC and Pizza Hut — during a rally near the GEC intersection.
The demonstration escalated into violence, with protestors pelting the establishments with stones, bricks, and shoes, causing significant damage to their glass storefronts.
These demonstrations, spread across several cities, reflect growing public outrage in Bangladesh over the conflict in Gaza, with calls intensifying for a nationwide boycott of Israeli-affiliated businesses and strong support for the Palestinian cause.
Dozens Arrested
Bangladeshi authorities have detained 49 individuals in connection with the recent incidents of vandalism and looting targeting shops and businesses across the country.
According to the press office of Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, law enforcement agencies responded swiftly to the unrest and criminal activities that unfolded during protest demonstrations in several cities. So far, 49 suspects have been taken into custody.
Local police confirmed that two cases have been filed in connection with the incidents, and investigations are currently ongoing. Legal proceedings are being initiated against those found to be involved.
US Warns Citizens
Following the violence, the U.S. embassy in Dhaka issued a warning on Monday, alerting its citizens in Bangladesh about the widespread vandalism during the pro-Palestinian protests.
“U.S. citizens should practice vigilance….You should avoid demonstrations and exercise caution in the vicinity of any large gatherings,” a statement from the embassy read.
“Review personal security plans; remain aware of your surroundings, including local events; and monitor local news stations for updates,” it added.
