Pro-Palestinian demonstrators protested outside the Microsoft Build Convention Center in Seattle on May 19, 2025, against the company’s alleged involvement in Israeli military actions in Gaza. Following a protest in Redmond, Washington, Microsoft announced the firing of two employees, Riki Fameli and Anna Hattle, who entered President Brad Smith’s office and demanded an end to the company’s support for Israel. A Microsoft spokesperson stated their actions violated company policies and that the firm is cooperating with law enforcement.
The protest was organized by a group called Apartheid Azure, which claims Microsoft indirectly supports Israeli military actions. The group has raised concerns about Microsoft’s Azure platform being used for surveillance in Gaza. Smith indicated the company would investigate the use of its services. Additionally, recent reports noted Microsoft’s prior layoffs related to protests over working conditions and contracts with the Israeli military. The situation has escalated, prompting involvement from the FBI.
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