Microsoft Disables Azure Services Linked to Unit 8200

Microsoft has disabled a set of Azure cloud storage and AI services used by a unit within Israel’s Ministry of Defense, commonly identified as Unit 8200, after an internal review found preliminary evidence supporting reports that the unit used Microsoft platforms to store and process mass surveillance of Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank. Investigations by The Guardian and partner outlets reported an expansive program that allegedly intercepted millions of civilian calls — described internally as “a million calls an hour” — and stored terabytes of data, reportedly up to about 8,000 TB, at a Netherlands data center. Microsoft president Brad Smith said the company does not provide technology to facilitate mass civilian surveillance, that the review is ongoing, and that the firm disabled specific services while working with external counsel and coordinating with Israeli officials. Microsoft also reiterated it does not access customer content as part of the probe and said the suspension applies only to certain cloud and AI tools rather than terminating all defense contracts; the decision followed months of employee protests and internal debate.