McDonald’s Pakistan has pledged a donation of Rs 10 million (PKR 1 crore) to support Gaza victims through the Edhi Foundation. The global food chain announced this in a social media post on X, formerly known as Twitter.
This announcement comes in the wake of a significant controversy surrounding McDonald’s Israel, which confirmed its donations of thousands of meals to the Israeli military during a period of conflict and its intense military action in the besieged Gaza Strip since October 7, 2023.
McDonald’s Pakistan’s contribution for Gaza
In response to the backlash in Pakistan, McDonald’s Pakistan took to its official social media accounts to make the philanthropic announcement, expressing its commitment to addressing the urgent humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
“In these trying times, our hearts go out to those affected by this tragic humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Understanding the immense challenges they are facing, McDonald’s Pakistan, under SIZA Foods (Pvt.) Ltd’s operation, is stepping forward to help,” the statement read.
The company pledged a significant sum of Rs1 crore to assist in bolstering relief efforts and providing solace to those affected.
Moreover, the statement emphasized the distinction between McDonald’s Pakistan and McDonald’s Israel, underscoring that the Pakistan branch is a wholly Pakistani entity owned and managed by SIZA Foods (Pvt.) Ltd., with no affiliation to McDonald’s Israel. The company rejected claims questioning its Pakistani identity and reiterated its commitment to its nation and its people.
McDonald’s Pakistan also highlighted its contributions to the local economy, job creation, and fostering local business partnerships as part of its dedication to the community. The statement emphasized that McDonald’s Pakistan is a commercial entity focused on serving great food without engaging in any form of political involvement.
In an earlier statement, McDonald’s clarified that the operations of McDonald’s in Pakistan and Israel are distinct entities with separate ownership, making their own business and communications decisions independently.
McDonald’s Pakistan, which initiated its journey with the opening of its first restaurant in Lahore in 1998, now has 81 restaurants across Pakistan contributing to economic growth and employment opportunities.
McDonald’s in Arab countries announce donations for Gaza
In a show of solidarity, McDonald’s branches across various Arab countries have also announced their donations to provide humanitarian aid for Gaza, further contributing to the global support for those affected by the ongoing crisis.
Controversy surrounding McDonald’s Israel
The controversy surrounding McDonald’s Israel began when it announced its intention to provide free meals to Israeli soldiers and hospitals during a period of conflict with Hamas group. The ongoing crisis and Israeli airstrikes have killed 3,000 civilians in Gaza and wounded hundreds. The attack by Hamas group killed some 1,300 Israelis.
During this intense time, McDonald’s move to offer free food to Israeli soldiers triggered widespread calls for a boycott of the fast food chain in several countries. The controversial decision to provide free meals to Israeli soldiers sparked a wave of calls for boycott within Pakistan.
Many Pakistanis have expressed their concerns and disappointment over the perceived association with McDonald’s Israel, leading social media campaigns urging the boycott of the fast food chain.
Reports and videos posted on social media showed citizens in Lebanon protesting outside McDonald’s outlets.
McDonald’s Israel’s social media accounts have also been locked in response to the backlash, with emotions running high on both sides of the issue.
