Microsoft faces protests during review of Israel military use of its technology

Protesters at Microsoft headquarters call for the company to cut ties with Israel as it reviews the use of its technology by the Israeli military.

Microsoft faces protests during review of Israel military use of its technology

Protesters gathered at Microsoft’s Redmond campus for two days, with 18 people arrested on Wednesday after workers demanded the tech giant end its business ties with Israel's military. The action followed Guardian reporting that Microsoft Azure could be used to store phone data collected by the Israeli military in Gaza and the West Bank. On Tuesday about 35 demonstrators left after Microsoft asked them to disperse; on Wednesday police said the crowd resisted and were detained for trespassing and related charges.

Microsoft has said it is launching an urgent review by the law firm Covington & Burling into the alleged use of its technology by the Israeli Defense Forces. The company has previously acknowledged military applications of its products and pledged to share findings from the new review once complete. No injuries were reported and it remains unclear how many of those arrested were Microsoft employees.

Employee activism is pushing big tech to face complex moral questions about global operations. When workers demand ethical standards, firms face reputational risk and political pressure at once. Microsoft’s decision to conduct a law firm–led review signals a shift toward more formal oversight, but it also raises questions about transparency and independent accountability.

The case highlights a broader trend: cloud platforms and AI tools can play roles in security and surveillance, making a clear ethical line essential. If the reviews are not perceived as credible or timely, the company may face continued public scrutiny and investor concern about long-term brand value and human rights commitments.

Highlights

Ethics will continue to influence how tech power is exercised abroad.