Israeli nightlife promoters have sparked international controversy after using images that appear to mock the militant Islamic State to publicize a gay-themed event last week.
The Washington Post and Haaertz are among the many media outlets reporting that the group, called Drek, posted the two questionable photographs on its Facebook page. In one, a model wearing only a Speedo holds a black flag similar to the Islamic State's banner:
The second image, which has been removed from the group's Facebook page, recalls ISIS footage which showed the executions of U.S. journalists James Foley and Steven Sotloff, as well as British aid worker David Haines.
The photos were used in connection with an event called "Drekistan at the Haoman," which was held Sept. 19 in Tel Aviv, according to The Guardian.
Meanwhile, Drek officials issued an apology, arguing that the use of the images was meant as "humor" and "satire."
"We think our enemies' victory will be when we live in fear and let them control our thoughts," officials are quoted by NBC News as saying. "We feel that humor takes the sting out of threatening and offensive issues. If our publications of our last party hurt the feeling of somebody, we apologize."
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