News

Microsoft Employee Fired After AI Protest During CEO’s Speech

7925
27
May

SEATTLE – A Microsoft employee was terminated after disrupting CEO Satya Nadella’s keynote speech at the company’s annual Build developer conference. The employee, identified as a software engineer, protested Microsoft’s technology partnership with the Israeli military concerning its operations in Gaza.

The incident occurred during the opening minutes of Nadella’s presentation in Seattle. The protesting employee reportedly shouted at Nadella, raising concerns about the use of Microsoft’s Azure cloud computing platform. Security personnel escorted the individual from the premises.

Following the disruption, the fired employee allegedly sent a company-wide email further detailing concerns regarding the implications of Microsoft’s Azure platform’s use in Gaza, challenging the company’s statements.

Reports indicate that the initial outburst triggered further pro-Palestinian demonstrations throughout the conference. Several executive talks experienced interruptions, and at least one livestreamed event had its audio temporarily cut off. Demonstrators also assembled outside the Seattle Convention Center, the venue for the Build conference.

This incident follows previous instances where Microsoft terminated employees for protesting company initiatives related to Israel, including a demonstration at Microsoft’s 50th-anniversary celebration in April.

Microsoft has acknowledged providing AI services to the Israeli military but maintains that it has not found evidence confirming the use of its Azure platform and AI technologies to target or harm civilians in Gaza.

The advocacy group “No Azure for Apartheid,” comprised of current and former Microsoft employees, claims the terminated employee received a termination letter shortly after the protest. The group also alleges that Microsoft has blocked internal emails containing keywords such as “Palestine” and “Gaza.”

As of the report, Microsoft has not responded to requests for comment regarding the recent protests and the company’s response. The Build developer conference is scheduled to conclude on Thursday.

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Ngoc Vy

Ngoc Vy is a tech journalist specializing in artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, and their societal impact. She combines technical rigor with on-the-ground coverage of Vietnam’s startup ecosystem, from AI ethics debates to gov-tech adoption. Ngoc Vy is also passionate about bridging the gender gap in STEM journalism.