British retailer Marks & Spencer has apologised after posting a picture from its Christmas advert showing red and green paper hats in a burning fireplace that were compared to a Palestinian flag, Reuters reports.

The company, one of the best-known names in British business, apologised for “any unintentional hurt caused” after sharing the image on Instagram.

The retailer deleted the Instagram post, posting a statement on the social media platform X saying: “Today we shared an outtake image from our Christmas clothing and home advert, which was recorded in August, before the conflict broke out between Israel and Hamas.

“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,” the company said.