British Museum Postpones Ancient Israel Talk After Disruption Threat

The British Museum postponed a talk titled "Ancient Israel and Judah in the British Museum" after receiving information that a significant proportion of registered attendees intended to disrupt the event. The talk was scheduled for around 1pm today as part of the museum's Jewish Culture Month series.

It has now been moved to a later date. Dr Paul Collins, Keeper of the Department of the Middle East, was set to deliver the presentation. The museum stated the decision followed discussions with organizers and security partners.

The British Museum said it had been informed that some attendees planned to prevent others from participating in good faith. It added that it recognizes the importance of lawful protest while maintaining responsibility for safety and security. "This decision was made to protect the event, not to diminish it," the museum stated.

It also noted its continued support for Jewish Culture Month and commitment to open discussion. The event page now carries a notice that the talk has been postponed and apologizes for any inconvenience.

" He stated that historical and academic truths were being stifled. Shadow Attorney General David Wolfson posted on social media that publicly funded institutions folding to pressure raises questions about their funding. Jewish Culture Month runs from May 16 to June 16. Several other UK museums are participating in the program.