Microsoft employees fired after protesting ‘AI weapons' supply to Israeli army at company's 50th anniversary celebration: report

Core Viewpoint - Microsoft has terminated two employees who protested against the company's provision of AI technology to the Israeli military during its 50th anniversary celebration, highlighting internal dissent regarding ethical concerns in its business practices [1][3][5]. Group 1: Employee Protests - The protests were initiated by Microsoft software engineer Ibtihal Aboussad, who interrupted a speech by Microsoft AI CEO Mustafa Suleyman, accusing the company of contributing to violence in the region by supplying AI technology to the Israeli military [3][4]. - Aboussad claimed that "fifty-thousand people have died" as a result of Microsoft's actions, emphasizing the moral implications of the company's contracts [3][6]. - A second employee, Vaniya Agrawal, also participated in the protest, indicating a broader discontent among Microsoft employees regarding the company's military contracts [4][5]. Group 2: Company Response - Microsoft responded to the protests by terminating the employees involved, with Aboussad being informed via a video call and Agrawal notified through email [5][7]. - The company stated that it provides avenues for employees to express their views but insists that such expressions should not disrupt business operations [7][10]. - Microsoft has faced similar protests in the past, including an incident where five employees were removed from a meeting with CEO Satya Nadella for voicing concerns over military contracts [7][10]. Group 3: Context of AI Technology Use - An investigation revealed that AI models from Microsoft and OpenAI were utilized in Israeli military operations, including targeting decisions during conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon [6]. - The report also detailed a tragic incident involving an errant airstrike that resulted in civilian casualties, further intensifying the ethical debate surrounding Microsoft's technology [6].