Iraqi Ministry of Interior arrests suspects in attacks on American-branded restaurants
Erbil (Kurdistan24) – On Tuesday, June 4, 2024, the Iraqi Ministry of Interior announced the arrest of individuals accused of attacking restaurants bearing American brands in Baghdad. The Federal Ministry of Interior described these attacks as acts of sabotage and expressed regret that some of the suspects belonged to a security apparatus.
The Ministry stated, "During the 26th, 27th, and 30th of month of May, incidents of sabotage and homemade bomb attacks occurred in Baghdad, targeting KFC Restaurant, Lee’s Chili House Restaurant, and the Cambridge Institute within the Palestine Street area, as well as the KFC Restaurant and Caterpillar company in the Karrada area in al-Jadriya."
Three U.S. restaurant franchises have been attacked in Baghdad, ostensibly in protest of U.S. support for Israel in its war with Hamas in Gaza.
They caused no physical injuries and minimal damage to the facilities. In that respect, they were largely symbolic, even as they were the first of their kind.
Read More: U.S. Calls on Iraq to fully investigate Attacks on U.S. Franchises
The first two attacks targeted Kentucky Fried Chicken outlets. The third attack was against an outlet of Chili House and Lee’s.
The statement added that intelligence and technical teams were immediately formed to identify the perpetrators. "After collecting accurate information, the names, places of work, and residences of the perpetrators were determined. An arrest warrant was issued against the perpetrators under Article 4 of terrorism."
In a significant operation, several defendants were arrested and admitted during the investigation to participating in the aforementioned acts of sabotage with a group of fugitive defendants.
Judicial arrest warrants have been issued for other suspects, and the Ministry of Interior and other security agencies are continuing their efforts to apprehend the remaining individuals.
The Ministry expressed regret that some of the arrested individuals belonged to a security service and carried out these actions under the pretext of harming American interests. They have been detained and will be referred to the competent courts.
On Monday evening, approximately 30 people attacked two restaurants, including the American KFC, in Baghdad. Security forces fired into the air to disperse the attackers and arrested at least two people. Security forces have been deployed in areas containing “American institutions” in Baghdad to prevent further incidents.
Read More: Cambridge institute, American Reconstruction Company attacked in Baghdad
No human casualties were reported, but there was material damage to the restaurants. Footage broadcast by local media showed masked men smashing furniture and glass at a KFC branch.
In similar attacks last week, sound bombs were thrown in front of Caterpillar company and a language institute in Baghdad. On May 26, a homemade bomb was thrown at a KFC branch, causing minor material damage. The next day, masked men stormed another branch of the restaurant and smashed its windows. Following these attacks, security forces announced the arrest of suspects.
US Ambassador to Iraq, Alina Romanowski, condemned the attacks and called on the Iraqi government to conduct a comprehensive investigation, bring those responsible to justice, and prevent future attacks.
We condemn recent violent attacks against U.S. and international businesses and urge the Government of Iraq to conduct a thorough investigation, bring to justice those who are responsible, and prevent future attacks. These attacks endanger Iraqi lives and property, and could…
— Ambassador Alina L. Romanowski (@USAmbIraq) May 30, 2024
The attacks are part of a broader boycott movement led by pro-Palestinian activists targeting major Western brands, particularly American ones, in response to US support for Israel. The movement has gained momentum since the start of the war in Gaza.
Kata'ib Hezbollah (KH) spokesperson, Abu Ali Al-Askari, called for the boycott and expulsion of perceived espionage agents, suggesting non-violent means. Iraqi factions loyal to Iran, including Kata'ib Hezbollah, demand the withdrawal of US-led coalition forces from Iraq.
Last week, Muqtada al-Sadr, leader of the Shiite National Movement, called for the closure of the US embassy in Baghdad following an Israeli bombing that killed dozens in a camp for displaced people in Rafah, Gaza.
The war in Gaza began after an unprecedented Hamas attack on Israeli territory on October 7, resulting in significant casualties on both sides and a severe military response from Israel.