Attacks on businesses linked to US brands rattle Baghdad as anger over the war in Gaza surges

By ABDULRAHMAN ZEYAD and KAREEM CHEHAYEB, Associated Press

Published: June 7, 2024, 8:40am

2 Photos

Iraqi security forces stand guard in front of Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurant in Baghdad, Wednesday, June 5, 2024. The recent protests — apparently organised by supporters of Iran-backed, anti-American militias in Iraq — reflect surging anger against the United States, Israel’s top ally, over the war in Gaza. (AP Photo/Ali Jabar) Photo Gallery

BAGHDAD (AP) — A dozen masked men jump out of two SUVs and a white pickup and storm a KFC in Baghdad, smashing everything in sight before fleeing the scene. A few days earlier, similar violence played out at Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken and Chili House — all American brands popular in the Iraqi capital.

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