Burger King employee fired after shouting "Free Palestine" at Israeli customer

A Burger King employee who was fired after shouting "Free Palestine" at an Israeli customer has raised approximately $100,000 through an online crowdfunding campaign. The incident took place at a Burger King branch in Breinigsville, Pennsylvania, when customer Rami Feinstein, an American musician who identified himself as being from Israel and wore a Star of David necklace, was ordering a meal.

After the employee, Ariana Hamilton, asked where he was from and he replied Israel, she told him to "Free Palestine." Feinstein stated in a video he posted that he felt threatened, received a refund, and left the restaurant, questioning whether Burger King remains a safe environment for Jewish customers.

Hamilton claimed in an Instagram video that the incident was an exercise of free speech rather than hostility. She explained that Feinstein initially stated he was from New Jersey before revealing his Star of David necklace, which prompted her remark. She added that she does not intend to back down from her position, despite being informed that her termination was due to customer discrimination and the use of hate speech.

Meanwhile, she is promoting a fundraising campaign to support herself while unemployed, stating the funds will cover rent, bills, and groceries. To date, she has raised about $100,000. The incident sparked significant debate on social media, with many users praising her actions while others demanded accountability. This was reported by the Roya News website.

In an official response, Burger King apologized for the incident:

"We are very sorry to hear about the experience you had. Burger King is a place where everyone should feel welcome, respected, and free from discrimination. We have zero tolerance for antisemitism, hate, or discrimination of any kind. We are working with the franchisee who owns and operates this restaurant to address the situation."