H&M Pulls ‘Talis Scarf’ in Israel Due to Backlash

Swedish retailer H&M has pulled the availability of a striped scarp in Israel amid backlash on social media that said the item too closely resembles a Talis (Jewish prayer shawl).

From VIN News by Glen Silver:

The scarf, which retails for $17.99 and is also available in a matching poncho, was pulled from Israeli shelves and websites along with an apology from cooperate reps.

“We are truly sorry if we have offended anyone with this piece,” reps for H&M said. “Everyone is welcome at H&M and we never take a religious or political stand. Our intention was never to upset anyone. Stripes is one of the trends for this season and we’ve been inspired by this.”

Both items will continue to be made available on the retailer’s U.S. and other websites.

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