Bangladesh is on the boil again as fresh protests that erupted over Israel’s offensive in Gaza earlier this week turned into vandalism and looting of business outlets. Outlets of international brands such as Bata, KFC, Pizza Hut, and Puma, perceived by the protesters as having ties to Israel, were vandalised and plundered.
The incident happened as thousands took to the streets in Sylhet, Chattogram, Khulna, Barishal, Cumilla and Dhaka in solidarity with Palestinians as Israel ramped up its attack on Gaza as a second ceasefire deal hangs fire. Slogans against US President Donald Trump were also raised due to his support for Israel.
In Bangladesh, Islamists are openly rallying for Hamas, vandalizing places like KFC, and calling for boycotts of U.S. and Israeli products. Despite the chaos, authorities have taken no action as anti-Israel , anti-America and anti-India slogans continue to spread.
The unrest, reminiscent of last year’s student protests that threw Bangladesh into chaos, saw the police launching raids and arresting over 70 people.
The swift police response came as Bangladesh gears up to host its first global investment summit under the regime of chief adviser Muhammad Yunus to attract investors amid an economic downturn.
