Microsoft AI CEO Mustafa Suleyman’s speech at the company’s 50th anniversary event faced a sudden interruption on Friday. A pro-Palestinian protester, also a Microsoft employee, confronted him during his presentation, criticizing the company’s alleged involvement with the Israeli military amid the ongoing Gaza conflict.
Employee Calls Out Microsoft’s AI Ties to Israel
As Suleyman detailed product updates and the future of Copilot, employee Ibtihal Aboussad approached the stage and shouted, “Mustafa, shame on you.” She accused Microsoft of enabling violence by selling AI technology to Israel. “You claim that you care about using AI for good but Microsoft sells AI weapons to the Israeli military. Fifty-thousand people have died and Microsoft powers this genocide in our region,” she said. She added, “Stop using AI for genocide.”
Suleyman Responds to Protest
In response, Suleyman paused and calmly said, “Thank you for your protest, I hear you.” Despite his acknowledgment, Aboussad continued shouting that he and the company had “blood on their hands.” She then tossed a keffiyeh scarf—a symbol of Palestinian solidarity—onto the stage before security escorted her out.
Top Leaders Face Second Protest
Later, another employee, Vaniya Agrawal, interrupted a panel discussion featuring Bill Gates, Steve Ballmer, and CEO Satya Nadella. Notably, this marked the first public appearance of all three Microsoft CEOs together since 2014.
Investigation Reveals AI Use in Strikes
Earlier this year, an Associated Press investigation revealed that Microsoft and OpenAI’s models were used by the Israeli military to identify bombing targets in Gaza and Lebanon. For instance, one 2023 airstrike mistakenly killed three children and their grandmother after targeting the wrong vehicle.
Microsoft’s Earlier Internal Protests
In February, five Microsoft employees protested military contracts during a meeting with Nadella. Though that protest remained internal, the latest demonstrations occurred publicly and were broadcast during the livestreamed event.
Company Issues Statement on Disruption
In response, Microsoft stated, “We provide many avenues for all voices to be heard… we ask that this be done in a way that does not cause a business disruption.” The company emphasized its commitment to high standards but did not confirm any disciplinary actions.
Protesters Report Lockout
Following the protest, Aboussad told the AP that she and Agrawal lost access to their Microsoft accounts. Since they have been unable to log back in, they believe they may have been fired. Microsoft has not officially commented on their employment status.