McDonald's CEO says several markets impacted by Israel-Hamas war

Chief executive said misinformation surrounding brands like McDonald's was "disheartening and ill-founded"

In October, McDonald's Israel said on its social media accounts that it had given thousands of free meals to Israel Defense Forces personnel.

McDonald's CEO Chris Kempczinski said on Thursday that several markets in the Middle East and some outside the region were experiencing a "meaningful business impact" due to the Israel-Hamas conflict as well as "associated misinformation" about the brand.

Major Western fast-food chains including McDonald's and Starbucks have seen largely spontaneous, grassroots boycott campaigns over their perceived pro-Israeli stance and alleged financial ties to Israel.