draw fire

Short definition from Wiktionary

Verb

1. 1
   In an armed encounter, to attract gunfire from an adversary, whether unintentionally or deliberately for the purpose of allowing one's allies or colleagues to gain a tactical advantage over the adversary.
2. 2
   To create a distraction that allows one's friends, co-workers, or other associates to gain an advantage over the distracted party.
3. 3
   To attract criticism or an angry reaction.