An Instagram post that asserted the slogan ‘Never Again’ should encompass all individuals apparently caused offense among Jewish communities.
The Holocaust Museum Los Angeles removed a social media update containing a phrase historically linked with the Holocaust, following allegations that it referenced the conflict in Gaza.
Disseminated to the Holocaust Museum Los Angeles’ 24,000 Instagram followers during the weekend, the message displayed an image depicting hands and forearms of various skin tones – one of which bore a Holocaust tattoo – joined in a circular formation. Its accompanying text stated “‘Never Again’ cannot exclusively signify never again for Jewish people.”
Though initially commended by some as recognizing Palestinian hardships, the post rapidly faced condemnation from Jewish organizations, leading to its deletion.
The museum subsequently clarified that the post originated from a pre-arranged campaign “designed to foster inclusivity and community,” rather than serving as “a political declaration concerning the current Middle East situation.”
Despite the post making no direct reference to Gaza, certain pro-Israel commentators encouraged benefactors to withdraw financial support from the institution. Conversely, its deletion prompted pro-Palestinian advocates to accuse the museum of abandoning a foundational anti-genocide commitment.
The Los Angeles museum, established in 1961 by Holocaust survivors, is presently undergoing renovations and is expected to reopen in June 2026. It committed to “improving” and guaranteeing that future content will be “more carefully crafted.”
This dispute arises amidst Israel’s ongoing military operation in Gaza, initiated following Hamas’s lethal incursion in October 2023, which resulted in approximately 1,200 fatalities and over 250 individuals being abducted. Around 50 of these are still thought to be held captive. According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, Israeli assaults have since claimed the lives of more than 64,000 individuals and injured over 163,000 since the commencement of the operation.
United Nations agencies have cited “increasing indications” of famine in Gaza, while international censure of Israel’s operation as genocidal has intensified. Multiple Western countries declared intentions to acknowledge a Palestinian state and reduce military or trade collaborations with Israel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu maintained that Gaza’s populace could have been eradicated within hours if genocide had been the objective.