Microsoft has confirmed it provided artificial intelligence and cloud computing tools to the Israeli military during the conflict in Gaza. The company also supported efforts to locate and rescue hostages taken during the October 2023 attacks.
In a recent blog post, Microsoft stated that it found no evidence its AI tools or Azure platform were used to target or harm civilians in Gaza.
The unsigned post marks the company’s first public statement about its role in the conflict. The war began after Hamas killed around 1,200 people in Israel, prompting a military response that has since resulted in tens of thousands of deaths in Gaza.
This disclosure follows an investigation that showed a major rise in the military’s use of commercial AI tools. After the 7 October attack, usage increased nearly 200-fold.
Azure’s role in intelligence analysis
Reports from the Associated Press revealed that the Israeli military used Azure to transcribe, translate, and process surveillance data. Officials then cross-referenced that intelligence with internal AI targeting systems.
Microsoft’s work with Israel’s Ministry of Defence reflects a broader trend. More tech firms are now supplying AI products to armed forces in the US, Ukraine, and Israel.
Human rights groups have raised concerns about this development. They warn that flawed AI systems could lead to errors in targeting decisions, risking civilian lives.
Due to employee concerns and media coverage, Microsoft launched an internal review. It also hired an external firm to help gather more information. The company did not name the firm or share any findings.
Microsoft did not explain how the Israeli military uses its services in detail. It also declined to comment further or answer written questions about its AI tools’ role in targeting.
The company confirmed it had provided software, cloud storage, technical support, and translation services. It also helped the Israeli government defend its cyberspace from external threats.
Microsoft grants limited access with oversight in Gaza support
Microsoft stated it granted Israel limited access to certain tools beyond standard commercial terms. It also offered emergency support during hostage recovery operations.
“Our assistance involved close oversight,” Microsoft said. “We approved some requests and declined others.”
The company believes it acted in line with its values, balancing support for hostage rescues with respect for civilian privacy and rights.
Microsoft did not confirm whether it or the external firm spoke with the Israeli military during the review. It also withheld details about the assistance provided or any specific steps to protect Palestinian privacy.
The statement noted that Microsoft has no visibility into how clients use software on their own servers. It also cannot track use via other commercial cloud providers.
Other major US tech firms, such as Google, Amazon, and Palantir, also hold contracts with the Israeli military for AI and cloud services.
Microsoft reiterated that all customers, including militaries, must follow its Acceptable Use Policy and AI Code of Conduct. These policies prohibit any illegal or harmful use. The company said it had found no violations of these terms by the Israeli military.
Emelia Probasco, a senior fellow at Georgetown University’s Center for Security and Emerging Technology, said the statement stands out. Few companies have outlined such clear standards for government partnerships.
“This is a rare case where a private firm sets terms for a government involved in conflict,” she said. “It’s similar to a weapons manufacturer telling a client how to use its equipment.”
Civilian impact and staff reactions
Israel has used intelligence tools to target armed groups and conduct hostage rescues. These operations have also affected civilians. For example, a February 2024 mission in Rafah freed two hostages but reportedly killed 60 Palestinians. In June 2024, a raid on the Nuseirat refugee camp freed four hostages, with over 270 Palestinian casualties.
Israel’s actions in Gaza and Lebanon have killed more than 50,000 people since the conflict began. Many of the victims were women and children.
A group of current and former Microsoft staff, called No Azure for Apartheid, has urged the company to release the full report from its internal review. Hossam Nasr, a former employee who organised a vigil for Palestinians, accused Microsoft of trying to improve its image rather than respond to staff concerns.
Cindy Cohn, Executive Director of the Electronic Frontier Foundation, welcomed Microsoft’s openness. However, she said the company still needs to answer more questions. She wants details on how its AI services operate on Israeli government servers.
“I’m pleased to see some transparency,” she said. “But it’s hard to match that with what’s happening on the ground.”
