"We therefore have informed Israel Ministry of Defense (IMOD) of Microsoft's decision to cease and disable specified IMOD subscriptions and their services, including their use of specific cloud storage and AI services and technologies. We have reviewed this decision with IMOD and the steps we are taking to ensure compliance with our terms of service, focused on ensuring our services are not used for mass surveillance of civilians."
"Microsoft's review of the use of its Azure cloud and AI technologies by the Israeli military follows reporting by The Guardian and pressure from current and former Microsoft employees. Microsoft has fired five employees in connection with protests over its Israeli government contracts at its headquarters recently. Protests last month included encampments and a group that managed to gain access to a company building and live stream themselves inside the office of Microsoft president Brad Smith."
Microsoft has ceased and disabled specified Israel Ministry of Defense (IMOD) Azure subscriptions and related cloud storage and AI services after a review found evidence supporting use of those services for mass surveillance of Palestinian civilians. The block targets a set of services used by a unit within IMOD while preserving Microsoft’s cybersecurity work for Israel and other Middle East partners, including under the Abraham Accords. The internal review and action followed revelations about recordings and data stored on Azure and sustained pressure and protests by current and former Microsoft employees and activist groups; recent protests prompted five employee firings.
Read at The Verge
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