LONDON: The British Museum has removed the word ‘Palestine’ from certain gallery displays in its ancient Levant and Egypt sections. The move follows a complaint by UK Lawyers for Israel, who argued the term was used inaccurately and no longer neutral. Previously, some maps labelled parts of the eastern Mediterranean coast as ‘Palestine’. Also, some individuals were described as being of “Palestinian descent.” One Egypt gallery panel was changed to read “Canaanite descent.” The museum explained that 'Palestine' has been used since the late 19th century but is now seen as a modern political term. It will use 'Canaan' for the southern Levant in the late second millennium BCE and UN terms for modern borders. 'Palestinian' remains a cultural or ethnographic label when suitable. The changes have faced backlash. Over 5,000 people signed a petition demanding the museum reverse the edits, accusing it of erasing Palestinian history. Reports said the changes were made last year after audience feedback. Historian William Dalrymple called the removals “ridiculous,” noting the name ‘Palestine’ dates back to 1186 BCE, older than ‘British.’ He later clarified after talks with museum director Nicholas Cullinan that the museum has not removed the term entirely. Cullinan said only two panels were changed during a routine update and expressed disgust over the legal pressure. Academic voices defend using 'ancient Palestine' as a valid term. Marchella Ward of Open University said claims against the term aim to erase Palestinians. Critics accuse UK Lawyers for Israel of a pattern targeting public bodies with legal threats. The European Legal Support Centre and others have filed complaints about this group's actions. The British Museum’s revisions highlight ongoing tensions over history and naming in the region.