After facing hate messages and boycott, Antwerp-based Israeli food chain Boker Tov closes
The Antwerp-based Israeli food chain Boker Tov has announced its closure after facing a sustained campaign of hate messages and boycotts. At its peak, the successful chain operated four restaurants across Belgium and even published a popular cookbook. However, its explicit association with Tel Aviv and its Israeli identity became 'too controversial,' leading to significant pressure. The owners reportedly considered drastic measures, including changing the interior design and even the name of the restaurants, in an attempt to mitigate the backlash. This closure occurs amidst a broader climate of heightened anti-Israel sentiment in Europe, as suggested by a related article from the same date titled 'FlagGate: How Israel Set Off a Storm by Hosting a Separatist Genocide Denier,' which highlights ongoing political controversies involving Israel and their potential impact on businesses with Israeli ties.