Microsoft has halted access to selected cloud and AI services previously used by an Israeli defence unit following an internal review into allegations of mass surveillance of Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank. The move comes after investigative reports suggested that Israel’s Unit 8200 used Microsoft Azure to store and analyse large volumes of phone call recordings and other data. Microsoft stated that the use of its technology for mass civilian surveillance violates its service agreements and global human rights policies. While core cybersecurity services remain unaffected, this action highlights the growing scrutiny of how tech companies’ platforms are deployed in conflict zones. The decision has sparked international debate over corporate responsibility, technology ethics, and the balance between national security and civilian privacy.

Open / Unclear Questions

Microsoft indicates its review is still ongoing, so what exact evidence was found, and how strong or comprehensive it is, isn’t fully public yet.

It is not entirely clear how much of the surveillance activity (if any) has been definitively proven via Microsoft’s systems vs reported via third parties.

The unit being referred to is believed to be Unit 8200, which is the Israeli military intelligence / signals intelligence agency. Microsoft didn’t officially name the unit in all statements, though multiple reports do.