Marks & Spencer apologizes for ad post after ‘Palestinian flag’ criticism

BIRMINGHAM, England

British multinational retailer Marks & Spencer has apologized after an outtake from its newly released Christmas advert was criticized for showing burning paper hats resembling the Palestinian flag.

The company said it apologizes for “any unintentional hurt caused” by a social media post that showed red, green and silver party hats in a fire grate.

The controversial ad image shared on the retailer’s Instagram page was accompanied with the caption: "This Christmas, do what you love ... like saying no to paper hats.”

After deleting the post, Marks & Spencer said: "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 apologize for any unintentional hurt caused."