Michael Solomonov’s restaurant group is closing six of its locations, but the company asserts the decision stems from longstanding economic challenges, not pressure from a pro-Palestinian boycott movement. Owner Steve Cook stated the closures are the result of financial considerations dating back several years. This clarification comes as activists advocating for Palestinian rights have attempted to take credit for the closures, viewing them as a success of their boycott efforts. The restaurant group maintains the move is a business restructuring and a response to economic realities. While the company acknowledges awareness of the boycott campaign, they firmly deny it was a motivating factor. The closures impact several of the group’s concepts across various locations. This situation highlights the complexities of navigating business decisions amidst political activism.