Microsoft has confirmed that it provides cloud and artificial intelligence services to Israel’s Defense Ministry (IMOD), while denying that its technologies have been used to harm civilians in Gaza. The announcement comes amid growing scrutiny over the role of U.S. tech firms in the ongoing conflict.
In a statement released Thursday, Microsoft acknowledged concerns from employees and human rights groups regarding whether its Azure cloud and AI products had been used to target civilians or cause harm in Gaza. The company stated that it had conducted an internal review and hired an external firm to investigate the matter.
“Based on these reviews, including interviewing dozens of employees and assessing documents, we have found no evidence to date that Microsoft’s Azure and AI technologies have been used to target or harm people in the conflict in Gaza,” the company said.
- Confirmed with Israeli Defense Ministry
Microsoft confirmed that it maintains a commercial relationship with IMOD, providing software, professional services, Azure cloud, and AI tools, including language translation services. However, the company emphasized that it does not have visibility into how customers use its products on private servers or devices.
Additionally, Microsoft disclosed that it had provided limited emergency support to the Israeli government following the October 7 Hamas-led attack, stating that the aid was intended to assist in hostage rescue efforts. The company clarified that some requests were approved while others were denied.
- Denial of Military-Specific Tools
Microsoft responded to allegations of deeper involvement by stating that it does not develop or provide surveillance or combat applications to Israel’s military. The company explained that militaries typically use proprietary software or defense-related providers for operations such as surveillance and targeting.
The statement comes as major U.S. tech companies face increasing pressure to disclose their involvement in government-led military operations. Microsoft reiterated its commitment to human rights, stating: “Based on everything we currently know, we believe Microsoft has abided by these commitments in Israel and Gaza”
