Microsoft’s 50th anniversary celebration was disrupted by pro-Palestinian protesters who claim the company’s AI technology is being used to select targets in Gaza, where thousands have died in recent conflicts. The protests come after an investigation revealed that AI models from Microsoft and OpenAI were part of a programme targeting bombing targets during Israeli military operations.
During the event, two Microsoft employees interrupted CEO Mustafa Suleyman’s speech, shouting that Microsoft profits from the “genocide” in Gaza. A keffiyeh scarf was thrown onto the stage, symbolizing support for Palestinian people. The incident highlights growing tensions over tech companies’ ties with Israel and their role in supplying AI technology to the military.
The protests follow a February incident where five employees were ejected from a meeting with CEO Satya Nadella after protesting against contracts with the Israeli military. Microsoft has stated that it will uphold high standards, but protesters argue that the company’s actions speak louder than words. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to escalate, with at least 61,700 Palestinians confirmed dead and thousands more injured.
As the tech industry grapples with its role in the conflict, companies like Microsoft face mounting pressure to re-evaluate their partnerships with Israel and the military.
Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/4/5/pro-palestinian-protesters-interrupt-microsofts-50th-anniversary-event