Microsoft employee interrupts CEO’s keynote with pro-Palestinian protest

Joe Lopez, a Microsoft employee, sparked controversy during the company’s Build conference by making pro-Palestinian comments about Israel’s use of Azure technology, leading him to be escorted out and subsequently issuing an explanation. Microsoft denied allegations that its cloud platform was involved in surveillance or military operations in Israel, while a worker-led group, Noaa, opposed these claims on behalf of Palestinian rights advocates. The incident highlights growing tensions over the company’s technology involvement in Israel and has prompted further protests within the organization, including firings for speaking out.