Protesters return to Microsoft campus, urge cutting Israel ties amid Gaza conflict

Protesters gathered at Microsoft's Redmond campus on August 21, 2025, demanding the tech giant sever ties with Israel amid the Gaza conflict. The demonstration followed the arrest of 20 individuals during a protest the previous day, where police cited vandalism and aggression, including pouring paint on Microsoft property. Among the arrestees were one current Microsoft employee and three former employees, all of whom have since been released on bail. Hossam Nasr, a protester, described a violent arrest and emphasized the group's commitment to advocating for Palestinian rights and reparations. Microsoft responded by stating that the actions of those arrested do not reflect its workforce, asserting that demonstrations on its property are not allowed.

The Redmond police confirmed that they forwarded the names and charges to the prosecutor's office for review. This incident underscores the broader tensions between corporate practices and political activism, particularly concerning international conflicts. Microsoft is reportedly reviewing its cloud services used in Israel, a move that may have significant implications for its corporate policies.