Britain’s M&S apologises for Christmas advert post compared to Palestinian flag
Reuters API
British retailer Marks & Spencer
The company, one of the best-known names in British business, apologised for “any unintentional hurt caused” after sharing the image on Instagram
Marks & Spencer, which started life in 1884 when Jewish immigrant Michael Marks came to the north of England, faced some criticism on social media over claims it was making a political statement.
The retailer deleted the Instagram post, posting a statement on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter
“It showed traditional, festive coloured red, green and silver Christmas paper party hats in a fire grate.”
“While the intent was to playfully show that some people just don’t enjoy wearing paper Christmas hats over the festive season, we have removed the post following feedback and we apologise for any unintentional hurt caused.”
Global companies are trying to avoid getting entangled in conflict between Israel and Hamas as the fighting has prompted a rise in religious hate crimes.
McDonald’s franchises in some Muslim countries distanced themselves from a move by the company’s Israeli restaurants last month to give free meals to the Israeli military.
