Microsoft Faces Internal Protests Over AI Contracts with Israeli Military

Microsoft employees protested against the company's AI and cloud service contracts with the Israeli military. The protest occurred after a report exposed Microsoft's technology aiding military operations. Employees called for accountability, while Microsoft emphasized non-disruptive protest channels. Tensions persist within the company regarding ethical commitments and human rights.

In a dramatic show of dissent, five Microsoft employees were escorted out of a meeting with the company's CEO, Satya Nadella, after protesting against the tech giant's contracts with the Israeli military for AI and cloud services.

The protest followed an Associated Press investigation revealing that Microsoft's AI models were employed in Israeli military operations, including a controversial 2023 airstrike in Lebanon. Employees accused the company of prioritizing profits over human rights.

Despite the protest, Microsoft maintained that it supports free expression through non-disruptive avenues, but declined further comment on potential disciplinary actions against the protesting employees. Internal debates about Microsoft's ethical commitments continue to unfold.

(With inputs from agencies.)