Microsoft cuts cloud services to Israeli military unit over Palestinian surveillance

Microsoft has cut cloud services to an Israeli military unit over allegations of Palestinian surveillance. The decision was prompted by an investigation sparked by a Guardian report, which claimed that Unit 8200, an elite Israeli military intelligence unit, was using Microsoft's Azure cloud storage to house data obtained through the surveillance of Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank. The report suggested that the data included information on phone calls and other personal details of Palestinians, which raised concerns about potential human rights violations. In response, Microsoft has decided to discontinue its cloud services to the military unit, citing its commitment to ethical and responsible use of its technology. The incident highlights the growing scrutiny on tech companies' involvement in government and military operations, particularly when it comes to issues of privacy, surveillance, and human rights. Microsoft's decision is seen as a significant move in addressing these concerns and upholding its principles of responsible technology development.