During Microsoft's 50th anniversary, two employees disrupted the event to protest the company's AI contracts with the Israeli military.

On April 5, 2025, software engineer Ibtihal Aboussad interrupted CEO Mustafa Suleyman’s speech, accusing Microsoft of violence against Palestinians.

The protest was not spontaneous; a group named No Azure for Apartheid organized it. Aboussad's symbolic actions, like throwing a keffiyeh onto the stage, emphasized the connection between Microsoft’s AI and allegations of war crimes.

Following the disruption, both protesters were terminated by Microsoft. The company deemed Aboussad's actions as misconduct, which raised alarms about the repercussions for employees voicing dissent on social justice issues.

The terminations sparked backlash, with advocacy groups criticizing Microsoft’s handling of dissent.

This incident reflects a trend where tech employees challenge their companies' military partnerships.

The protests challenge Microsoft to reconsider its contracts and ethical stance. As public sentiment shifts, the situation may influence corporate governance standards and inspire employees to demand accountability on critical global issues.