Two Microsoft employees have been terminated after staging a sit-in at the office of company president Brad Smith. The protest was organized to express discontent over Microsoft’s continued business relations with Israel, particularly in the backdrop of the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Demonstration Inside Corporate Headquarters

According to reports, the workers entered Smith’s office during business hours and refused to leave until Microsoft addressed their concerns. The employees were part of a larger group of staff and activists who have been voicing opposition to the company’s contracts with the Israeli government, especially its cloud computing project, known as “Project Nimbus.”

Company’s Response to the Protest

Microsoft stated that the workers violated company policies by disrupting operations and creating a security concern inside the president’s office. In a brief statement, the company reiterated its commitment to workplace discipline while defending its technology partnerships as part of its global business strategy.

Broader Employee Dissent

This incident highlights growing unrest among tech workers across Silicon Valley regarding corporate partnerships with governments engaged in military operations. Similar protests have been observed at other major tech companies, including Google and Amazon, where staff have demanded an end to contracts tied to Israel’s defense sector.

Rising Pressure on Tech Giants

Human rights groups and labor activists have increasingly pressured global technology companies to reconsider their dealings with Israel, citing humanitarian concerns. Microsoft’s decision to fire the employees is expected to fuel further debate about free expression in the workplace and corporate responsibility in times of conflict.