The recent attacks on American franchise restaurants in Baghdad by supporters of Iran-backed militias reflect a surge of anger against the United States due to its alliance with Israel. These attacks, orchestrated by masked men who stormed the establishments, are part of a change in tactics aimed at maximizing anti-US sentiment over Washington’s support for Israel.
The ongoing war in Gaza has heightened tensions between Iraq and the US. The conflict began when the Hamas terror group invaded southern Israel, resulting in numerous casualties. Israel’s subsequent offensives in Gaza have led to the deaths of thousands of Palestinians.
In response to the war in Gaza, a coalition of Iran-backed militias called the Islamic Resistance in Iraq launched attacks on US military bases in Iraq and eastern Syria. The attacks ceased after retaliatory strikes by the US following a drone attack on a base that killed three American soldiers.
The recent attacks on American brands and businesses in Iraq, including KFC and Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken, are intended to promote a boycott of American products and deter their presence in the country. Supporters of these militias confirmed that they were behind the attacks and that their goal is to increase anti-US sentiment.
These attacks not only target American franchises but also symbolize the rivalry between Tehran and Washington. Political analyst Ihsan al-Shammari believes that they send a message that Western companies cannot survive in Iraq.
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, who is backed by a pro-Iran coalition, has attempted to balance appeasing anti-US allies without jeopardizing foreign investments or stoking tensions with Washington. Iraq has been caught in the middle of the power struggle between the US and Iran, leaving its government with little sovereignty and agency.
The Iraqi government has made efforts to arrest suspects involved in the recent rioting, but there are concerns about potential escalation if they crack down too hard. The US ambassador to Iraq has condemned these attacks, stating that they could impact foreign investment in Iraq’s economy.
The Iraqi security forces are taking measures to protect investments and maintain a safe environment for investors. However, there are warnings that further attacks may occur if the withdrawal of US troops from Iraq stalls.
Ultimately, these attacks not only harm American interests but also impact Iraqi workers and patrons. The Iraqi government is being urged to respond appropriately and hold those responsible accountable in order to safeguard the country’s security and economic well-being.
