(Israel Hayom/Exclusive to JNS.org) McDonald’s Israel has said it will not open a branch in the city of Ariel, citing its location beyond the Green Line as the reason, Calcalist reported last week. According to Tzahi Nahmias, the owner of the Mega Or construction firm, which is marketing space in the Ariel mall that offered to host McDonald’s, other chains have also expressed concern over opening branches in Ariel because of its location, but refrained from naming them because they have yet to finalize their decisions.

Rami Levy, owner of the Rami Levy supermarket chain, which operates beyond the Green Line, told Calcalist that Arabs would be among those hurt by the apparent boycott of the area. “I don’t agree with bringing politics into business,” Levy said. Israeli Housing Minister Uri Ariel called on the Israeli public to boycott McDonald’s. “I urge the public to boycott anyone who boycotts it,” Ariel said.