The employees fired for protesting Microsoft's ties to Israel

Posted on 04/10/2025

Ibtihal Aboussad and Vaniya Agrawal made headlines around the world on Friday when they interrupted Microsoft's 50th anniversary party to protest the company's provision of AI services to Israel's military.

Calling for an end to Microsoft's AI and cloud service contracts with Israeli forces, which are used for targeting and surveillance in Gaza and Lebanon, the pair said the decision to take action followed months of having their concerns over human rights violations ignored by their superiors.

In an interview with Middle East Eye, the former employees talk about what led to their decision to disrupt the high-profile event, including Microsoft's links to Israel's military and the company's response to their concerns, and reflect on whether they have any regrets about taking such bold action.

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