During Microsoft’s Build conference in Seattle, an employee interrupted CEO Satya Nadella’s speech. The protester shouted, “Free Palestine!” on stage. As a result, security quickly removed the protester. However, Nadella continued his speech and did not respond to the outburst.
Employee Sends Email After Protest
Afterward, the protester was identified as Joe Lopez, a firmware engineer on Microsoft’s Azure hardware systems team. Shortly after the disruption, Lopez emailed thousands of coworkers. He wrote, “I was shocked by the silence of our leadership.” Moreover, he accused Microsoft of ignoring the possible use of Azure and AI tools in Gaza. He stated, “Leadership rejects our claims that Azure technology is being used to target or harm civilians in Gaza.” He added, “Those of us who have been paying attention know that this is a bold-faced lie.”
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Lopez Raises Ethical Concerns
Furthermore, Lopez warned about the potential misuse of cloud data. He claimed, “Every byte of data that is stored on the cloud… can and will be used as justification to level cities and exterminate Palestinians.”
Microsoft Denies Any Misuse
In response, Microsoft launched an internal review. The company reported that it found no proof of its technology causing harm. It stated, “Our relationship with Israel’s Ministry of Defense is structured as a standard commercial relationship.” Additionally, it said, “We found no evidence that Microsoft’s Azure and AI technologies, or any of our other software, have been used to harm people.”
Group Behind the Protest Speaks Out
Meanwhile, the protest was organized by a group called No Azure for Apartheid. This group includes Microsoft employees opposing contracts with Israel. On its website, the group urged action: “Join the growing No Tech for Apartheid movement and demand that Microsoft live up to its own purported ethical values—by ending its direct and indirect complicity in Israeli apartheid and genocide.”
Fired Worker Criticizes Company’s Statement
In addition, former Microsoft employee Hossam Nasr criticized the company’s latest statement. Nasr, who helped organize the protest, was fired after holding a vigil outside Microsoft’s HQ. He argued, “In one breath, they claim that their technology is not being used to harm people in Gaza, while also admitting they don’t have insight into how their technologies are being used.” Therefore, he accused the company of staging “a PR stunt to whitewash their image.”
