Microsoft Enlists FBI to Track Gaza Protests by Employees

Microsoft has faced significant internal protests from employees opposing the company's business ties to Israel's military amid the Gaza conflict, particularly criticizing its Azure cloud platform's alleged role in enabling Israeli military operations. In response, Microsoft enlisted the FBI and local law enforcement to monitor and manage demonstrations, flagging internal communications containing keywords like 'Gaza' and disciplining or firing staff involved in protests, including notable incidents during company events such as the Build developers conference. Pro-Palestinian activists, including some Microsoft employees, escalated demonstrations with actions like kayaking near the homes of executives CEO Satya Nadella and President Brad Smith, prompting increased security measures and police intervention. Microsoft President Brad Smith defended the company's approach, emphasizing the balance between allowing internal discussion and maintaining operational security, and stating that any misuse of technology violating terms of service would be addressed. Despite these efforts to suppress dissent, employee-led groups like 'No Azure for Apartheid' continue to resist, condemning Microsoft's reliance on law enforcement and asserting their protests will persist. This controversy highlights the broader challenges tech companies face as geopolitical conflicts increasingly influence workplace activism and corporate governance.