McDonald’s receives criticism for feeding Israeli soldiers for free

After announcing that it would offer Israeli soldiers free lunches amidst the continuing conflict with Hamas, McDonald’s has come under fire. McDonald’s Israel declared on Instagram that it would be providing hospitals and soldiers with thousands of free meals. In an update, McDonald’s Israel stated, “This is above and beyond a discount for soldiers coming to restaurants. Yesterday, we contributed 4,000 meals to hospitals and military units, and we expect to donate thousands each day to soldiers in the field and in drafting regions. According to a Newsweek story, “We opened five eateries that were open just for this reason.

The restaurant’s action was criticized by many customers. A user said, “McDonald’s is giving the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) free lunches. We ought to act in accordance with our convictions and adhere to our principles. Let’s protest McDonald’s because it is unethical to support businesses that take part in hostilities, especially when innocent lives are being lost.” If McDonalds gives free meals to the Israel Defense Force and not to those  affecte in Gaza, then I think all Muslims around the globe should boycott McDonalds,” stated another individual.

Additionally, some commenters commended the fast-food restaurant for supporting Israel. “Well done, McDonald’s Israel,” someone said.

It should be noted that the McDonald’s Israel official account has now changed to private.

Statement from McDonald’s Oman pic.twitter.com/SzKz7lhmgk

— McDonald’s Oman (@Mcdonaldsoman) October 14, 2023

On October 13, demonstrations broke out in Lebanon in response to the food corporation’s decision to give Israeli forces free food. According to a report in Lebanon’s 961 newspaper, Palestinian gangs stormed a McDonald’s in Spinneys, Sidon. There were no reported injuries during the same period. “McDonald’s Lebanon affirms that the position of other franchisees in other countries and territories does not represent the views or positions of McDonald’s Lebanon in any way, and McDonald’s Lebanon is not at all involved in the actions taken in other markets outside of Lebanon,” the fast food chain said in a statement.

Statement from Al Maousherji Catering Company – McDonald’s Kuwait pic.twitter.com/sQyiwgeLjI

— McDonalds Kuwait (@McDonaldsKuwait) October 14, 2023

Also read: United States Dispatches Second Aircraft To Deter Hostile Action Against Israel

Meanwhile, McDonald’s Oman took to X, formerly Twitter, and expressed their support for Gaza. On Saturday, they wrote, Oman stands with Gaza. They also added that the company has donated $100,000 towards the relief efforts for people in Gaza. They said, “McDonald’s Oman (Al Daud Restaurants LLC) affirms our humanitarian sympathy for our brothers and sisters in Gaza, and we do not compromise on our commitment to the highest of principles and values that thrive in our community. From this ground of sound values and principles, we are pleased to announce that McDonald’s Oman has donated $100,000 towards the relief efforts for the people of Gaza, in coordination with the concerned official authorities.”