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Microsoft Employees Disrupt 50th Anniversary Over AI Ethics Concerns
At Microsoft's 50th anniversary event, employees protested the company's AI contracts with the Israeli military, accusing leadership of complicity in alleged war crimes. The disruptions underscore internal conflicts over Microsoft's role in defense technology and its ethical implications.
During Microsoft's 50th anniversary celebration in Redmond, Washington, software engineer Ibtihal Aboussad interrupted AI CEO Mustafa Suleyman's presentation. Aboussad accused Microsoft of contributing to genocide through its AI technologies, specifically criticizing the company's $133 million defense contract with the Israeli military. She claimed Microsoft's AI tools were used for surveillance and targeting civilians in Gaza, labeling Suleyman a "war profiteer."
Following Aboussad's protest, another employee, Vaniya Agrawal, disrupted a segment featuring Bill Gates, Steve Ballmer, and Satya Nadella. Agrawal condemned Microsoft's involvement with the Israeli military and announced her resignation, urging colleagues to protest the company's actions.
These incidents highlight ongoing internal dissent at Microsoft regarding its AI contracts with the Israeli military, reflecting broader debates about corporate responsibility and ethical use of technology.
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