Coca-Cola Caught in Controversy Over Middle Eastern Ad
The beverage giant aired an ad in the Arab world claiming no ties to Israel, sparking outrage and leading to its removal.
(Photo: Shutterstock)Is Coca-Cola, a brand beloved in Israel since the country's founding, distancing itself from the nation to boost sales in Arab markets? Recently, the company launched a controversial ad in Muslim-majority Bangladesh, appearing to take a side.
The controversy began when calls to boycott the company arose in the Arab world over claims that it maintains close ties to Israel. The advertisement, aired during a high-profile cricket match between India and Pakistan, was pulled after viewers suggested it was crafted to 'disguise the company's support for Israel'.
The ad features a teenage boy named Sohail, who, on a sweltering day at the market, refuses to buy a Coke. When the shopkeeper questions his decision, Sohail says, "That thing is from that place," implying Israel. The shopkeeper counters, insisting that Coca-Cola isn’t from Israel and highlights the company's operations in 190 countries over 138 years, including Turkey, Spain, Dubai, and "Palestine".
The backlash online accused the company of shunning Israel to appease pro-Palestinian factions that push for boycotts of companies supporting the state. Some online users criticized the ad for being culturally insensitive and spreading misinformation, speculating that the company's motive is to ramp up sales amidst declining figures, stopping at nothing to accomplish this.
