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British Museum Delays Jewish Lecture Amid Protest Threat

6/3/2026

Summary

British Museum Postpones

The British Museum postponed the Jewish Culture Month lecture on Ancient Israel and Judah scheduled for 28 May because it expected protest disruption.
Director Nicholas Cullinan said credible information indicated that between 25 % and 50 % of ticket holders planned to disrupt the event.
The museum rescheduled the talk for early June, will livestream it, and will publish new booking details on its website.

Summary

Cullinan Expands Lecture

Cullinan announced that the lecture will proceed for a larger audience to avoid hijacking.
Accusations claimed the museum removed the term ‘Palestine’ from displays, prompting diplomatic criticism.
Palestinian ambassador Husam Zomlot asked the Foreign Office to intervene and refused to meet Cullinan until the references are restored.
The month-long series, begun on 16 May, runs at three museums as antisemitism rises since the October 2023 Israel-Gaza war.

History

Historical Context

In November 1975 the UN General Assembly adopted Resolution 3379, declaring Zionism a form of racism with 72 votes for, 35 against and 32 abstentions. The resolution was overturned by Resolution 46/86 on 16 December 1991, a move Israel tied to return to UN talks. The legacy resurfaces as British Museum director Nicholas Cullinan faces protests, while Palestinian ambassador Husam Zomlot calls for policy reversal.

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British Museum Postpones

The British Museum postponed the Jewish Culture Month lecture on Ancient Israel and Judah scheduled for 28 May because it expected protest disruption.
Director Nicholas Cullinan said credible information indicated that between 25 % and 50 % of ticket holders planned to disrupt the event.
The museum rescheduled the talk for early June, will livestream it, and will publish new booking details on its website.

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