Microsoft has ceased services for an Israeli military unit after an internal review found its artificial intelligence and cloud computing products were used for mass surveillance of Palestinians. This action follows reports from The Associated Press and The Guardian detailing the Israeli Ministry of Defense's use of Microsoft's Azure platform in Gaza and the West Bank. Microsoft's vice chair, Brad Smith, stated the company is enforcing its terms of service, which prohibit using its technology for mass surveillance of civilians. An investigation indicated that the Israeli military's use of Microsoft products surged after the October 7, 2023 attack, with reports suggesting these tools were used to compile and translate surveillance data, including phone calls and text messages, for targeting airstrikes. Meanwhile, California is moving forward with significant AI regulation, with Governor Gavin Newsom indicating support for a bill that would require large AI developers with over $500 million in revenue to register with the state, share safety plans, and report serious issues. This move positions California as a potential leader in AI governance, contrasting with a national push for a hands-off approach. In other tech news, Senators are questioning Amazon's hiring practices, specifically the sponsorship of thousands of H-1B visa workers after significant layoffs, while AI executives express concerns that a proposed $100,000 H-1B visa fee could harm startups. On the AI development front, Google, Anthropic, and OpenAI are developing protocols for an emerging 'agentic era' of the internet, where AI agents will act on behalf of users for tasks like booking flights and managing workflows. Separately, HSBC has achieved a breakthrough in bond trading using quantum computing to predict prices more accurately, signaling a growing adoption of quantum technology in finance.
Key Takeaways
- Microsoft has disabled services for an Israeli military unit after finding its AI and cloud products were used for mass surveillance of Palestinians, citing violations of its terms of service.
- Reports indicate the Israeli military's use of Microsoft products increased significantly after the October 7, 2023 attack, with tools allegedly used for compiling and translating surveillance data for targeting.
- California is nearing the passage of a significant AI regulation bill, potentially requiring AI developers with over $500 million in revenue to disclose safety protocols and report incidents.
- Senators are investigating Amazon's hiring of thousands of H-1B visa workers after mass layoffs, questioning the company's recruitment practices.
- AI executives warn that a proposed $100,000 H-1B visa fee could disadvantage startups and hinder innovation by limiting access to global talent.
- Google, Anthropic, and OpenAI are developing foundational protocols for an emerging 'agentic era' of the internet, where AI agents will operate autonomously on behalf of users.
- HSBC has used quantum computing to achieve a breakthrough in bond trading by more accurately predicting bond prices.
- Saudi Arabia is seeking AI partnerships with Asian countries, aiming to become a hub for artificial intelligence and data centers.
- Senator Bernie Sanders has voiced concerns that billionaires' AI investments are primarily aimed at increasing profits and potentially replacing workers, rather than benefiting ordinary Americans.
- Axtria Inc. received an award for Leading AI Service Provider at Cypher 2025, recognizing its use of AI in the life sciences industry.
Microsoft restricts Israeli military access to cloud and AI tools
Microsoft has stopped providing services to a unit within the Israeli military. A company review found that Microsoft's artificial intelligence and cloud computing products were being used for mass surveillance of Palestinians. This action follows reports from The Associated Press and The Guardian. Microsoft's vice chair, Brad Smith, stated the company is enforcing its terms of service. An investigation revealed increased use of Microsoft products by the Israeli military after the October 7, 2023 attack. Reports suggest these tools were used to compile surveillance data, including phone calls and text messages, for targeting airstrikes. Microsoft acknowledged selling services to the Israeli military in May but initially found no evidence of misuse.
Microsoft limits Israeli military's use of cloud and AI services
Microsoft has stopped services to an Israeli military unit after determining its AI and cloud products were used for mass surveillance of Palestinians. This decision comes after reports from The Associated Press and The Guardian revealed the Israeli Ministry of Defense used Microsoft's Azure platform for operations in Gaza and the West Bank. Microsoft's vice chair, Brad Smith, confirmed the company is enforcing its terms of service. An investigation showed a significant increase in Microsoft product usage by the Israeli military following the October 7, 2023 attack. The reports indicated these tools were used for mass surveillance, compiling data from phone calls and texts for targeting purposes.
Microsoft halts services to Israeli military unit over surveillance concerns
Microsoft has disabled services for an Israeli military unit after a review found its AI and cloud products were used for mass surveillance of Palestinians. This action follows reports by The Associated Press and The Guardian detailing the Israeli Ministry of Defense's use of Microsoft's Azure platform in Gaza and the West Bank. Microsoft's vice chair, Brad Smith, stated the company is enforcing its terms of service. An investigation in February showed a surge in Microsoft product use by the Israeli military after the October 7, 2023 attack. Reports indicated these tools were used to gather and translate surveillance data, including phone calls and texts, for targeting airstrikes.
Microsoft cuts Israeli military access to cloud, AI tools
Microsoft has disabled services to an Israeli military unit after a review found its artificial intelligence and cloud computing products were used for mass surveillance of Palestinians. This decision follows reports by The Associated Press and The Guardian that the Israeli Ministry of Defense used Microsoft's Azure platform for operations in Gaza and the West Bank. Microsoft's vice chair, Brad Smith, stated the company is enforcing its terms of service. An investigation in February showed a significant increase in the Israeli military's use of Microsoft products after the October 7, 2023 attack. Reports indicated these tools were used to compile surveillance data, including phone calls and text messages, for targeting airstrikes.
Microsoft restricts Israeli military's use of cloud and AI services
Microsoft has disabled services for an Israeli military unit after a company review determined its AI and cloud computing products were used for mass surveillance of Palestinians. This action follows reports by The Associated Press and The Guardian detailing the Israeli Ministry of Defense's use of Microsoft's Azure platform in Gaza and the West Bank. Microsoft's vice chair, Brad Smith, stated the company is enforcing its terms of service. An investigation in February showed a surge in Microsoft product use by the Israeli military after the October 7, 2023 attack. Reports indicated these tools were used to gather and translate surveillance data, including phone calls and texts, for targeting airstrikes.
Microsoft limits Israeli military access to cloud, AI tools
Microsoft has disabled services for an Israeli military unit after a company review found its artificial intelligence and cloud computing products were used for mass surveillance of Palestinians. This decision follows reports by The Associated Press and The Guardian detailing the Israeli Ministry of Defense's use of Microsoft's Azure platform in Gaza and the West Bank. Microsoft's vice chair, Brad Smith, stated the company is enforcing its terms of service. An investigation in February showed a surge in Microsoft product use by the Israeli military after the October 7, 2023 attack. Reports indicated these tools were used to gather and translate surveillance data, including phone calls and texts, for targeting airstrikes.
Microsoft restricts Israeli military's use of cloud and AI services
Microsoft has disabled services for an Israeli military unit after a company review found its artificial intelligence and cloud computing products were used for mass surveillance of Palestinians. This decision follows reports by The Associated Press and The Guardian detailing the Israeli Ministry of Defense's use of Microsoft's Azure platform in Gaza and the West Bank. Microsoft's vice chair, Brad Smith, stated the company is enforcing its terms of service. An investigation in February showed a surge in Microsoft product use by the Israeli military after the October 7, 2023 attack. Reports indicated these tools were used to gather and translate surveillance data, including phone calls and texts, for targeting airstrikes.
Microsoft blocks Israeli military access to cloud, AI over surveillance reports
Microsoft has cut off services to an Israeli military unit after an internal review found its AI and cloud products were used for mass surveillance of Palestinians. This action follows reports by The Associated Press and The Guardian that Israel's Ministry of Defense used Microsoft's Azure platform for operations in Gaza and the West Bank. Microsoft vice chair Brad Smith stated the company is enforcing its terms of service. An investigation showed increased use of Microsoft products by the Israeli military after the October 7, 2023 attack, with reports indicating these tools were used for mass surveillance and targeting.
Microsoft limits Israeli military's use of cloud and AI services
Microsoft has disabled services for an Israeli military unit after a company review found its artificial intelligence and cloud computing products were used for mass surveillance of Palestinians. This decision follows reports by The Associated Press and The Guardian detailing the Israeli Ministry of Defense's use of Microsoft's Azure platform in Gaza and the West Bank. Microsoft's vice chair, Brad Smith, stated the company is enforcing its terms of service. An investigation in February showed a surge in Microsoft product use by the Israeli military after the October 7, 2023 attack. Reports indicated these tools were used to gather and translate surveillance data, including phone calls and texts, for targeting airstrikes.
Microsoft cuts Israeli military access to cloud, AI tools
Microsoft has disabled services for an Israeli military unit after a company review found its artificial intelligence and cloud computing products were used for mass surveillance of Palestinians. This decision follows reports by The Associated Press and The Guardian detailing the Israeli Ministry of Defense's use of Microsoft's Azure platform in Gaza and the West Bank. Microsoft's vice chair, Brad Smith, stated the company is enforcing its terms of service. An investigation in February showed a surge in Microsoft product use by the Israeli military after the October 7, 2023 attack. Reports indicated these tools were used to gather and translate surveillance data, including phone calls and texts, for targeting airstrikes.
Microsoft cuts Israeli military access to cloud, AI tools
Microsoft has cancelled some services for the Israeli military after finding its cloud computing software was allegedly used to spy on Palestinians. This action follows reports by The Guardian, +972 Magazine, and Local Call that Israel's Unit 8200 used Microsoft's Azure platform to store phone call data from Gaza and the West Bank. Microsoft vice chair Brad Smith confirmed that some services were ceased and disabled, citing violations of the company's terms of service. An investigation by The Associated Press in February also noted increased use of Microsoft products by the Israeli military for mass surveillance and targeting after the October 7, 2023 attack.
Microsoft restricts Israeli military's use of cloud and AI services
Microsoft has disabled services for an Israeli military unit after a company review found its artificial intelligence and cloud computing products were used for mass surveillance of Palestinians. This decision follows reports by The Associated Press and The Guardian detailing the Israeli Ministry of Defense's use of Microsoft's Azure platform in Gaza and the West Bank. Microsoft's vice chair, Brad Smith, stated the company is enforcing its terms of service. An investigation in February showed a surge in Microsoft product use by the Israeli military after the October 7, 2023 attack. Reports indicated these tools were used to gather and translate surveillance data, including phone calls and texts, for targeting airstrikes.
Microsoft limits Israeli military's use of cloud and AI services
Microsoft has disabled services for an Israeli military unit after a company review found its artificial intelligence and cloud computing products were used for mass surveillance of Palestinians. This decision follows reports by The Associated Press and The Guardian detailing the Israeli Ministry of Defense's use of Microsoft's Azure platform in Gaza and the West Bank. Microsoft's vice chair, Brad Smith, stated the company is enforcing its terms of service. An investigation in February showed a surge in Microsoft product use by the Israeli military after the October 7, 2023 attack. Reports indicated these tools were used to gather and translate surveillance data, including phone calls and texts, for targeting airstrikes.
Microsoft cuts Israeli military access to cloud, AI tools
Microsoft has cut off access to an Israeli military unit after a review found its cloud computing and artificial intelligence products were used for widespread surveillance of Palestinians. This action follows media reports alleging the Israeli Ministry of Defense used Microsoft's Azure technology to support operations in Gaza and the West Bank. Microsoft president Brad Smith stated the company is taking steps to ensure its terms of service are followed. An investigation showed the Israeli military's use of Microsoft products increased significantly after the October 7, 2023 attack, with reports indicating these tools were used for mass surveillance and targeting.
Microsoft cuts services to Israel Defense Ministry over Gaza surveillance
Microsoft has stopped providing services to Israel's Defense Ministry due to concerns that its technology was used for mass surveillance of Palestinians. Reports from The Guardian indicated that the Israeli military gathered phone call data from Gaza and the West Bank, storing it on Microsoft servers. Microsoft President Brad Smith confirmed that an internal review found evidence supporting these claims, including the use of Azure storage and AI services. The company has ceased services that violate its terms of service, which prohibit using its tech for mass surveillance of civilians. This decision follows previous reports and an ongoing review.
Microsoft ends services for Israeli military unit over surveillance allegations
Microsoft has terminated services for an Israeli military unit after an investigation suggested the company's cloud computing technology was used for mass surveillance of Palestinians. Microsoft President Brad Smith stated that the company ceased services after finding evidence supporting reports that Israel's military intelligence unit used Microsoft Azure to store phone call data from Gaza and the West Bank. Smith emphasized that Microsoft does not provide technology for mass surveillance of civilians and is enforcing its terms of service. The review found evidence of Azure storage use in Europe and AI service utilization by the Israeli military.
California moves forward with AI regulation bill
California is nearing the passage of a significant AI law that will require transparency from major AI companies. Governor Gavin Newsom has not yet definitively stated if he will sign the bill, SB 53, but its progress suggests strong momentum. If signed, the law would require large AI developers to publicly disclose safety protocols and report safety incidents. It would also include whistleblower protections and provide public cloud computing access for smaller developers and researchers. Newsom has until October 12 to sign or veto the legislation.
California AI regulation clashes with GOP's hands-off approach
California is advancing its efforts to regulate artificial intelligence (AI), putting it at odds with a Republican push for a national ban on such policies. Governor Gavin Newsom stated that California has a responsibility to lead in AI regulation, supporting risk-taking but not recklessness. The state legislature passed several AI bills, including Senate Bill 53, which requires developers of large AI models to publish risk assessment frameworks. This bill is awaiting the governor's signature. Experts suggest that California's regulations could become a de facto national standard, influencing companies nationwide. However, some Republicans and White House officials argue against California setting national AI policy.
Newsom signals support for California AI regulation bill
California Governor Gavin Newsom has indicated support for a bill that could make the state the first to regulate artificial intelligence. He believes the legislation, likely SB 53, strikes the right balance between industry collaboration and public protection. If passed, the bill would require AI developers with over $500 million in revenue to register with the state, share safety plans, report serious issues, and offer whistleblower protections. Senator Scott Wiener, the bill's author, emphasizes its focus on transparency and safety while fostering innovation. The urgency for regulation has been highlighted by tragic events, such as the death of a teenager linked to an AI chatbot.
Senators question Amazon's hiring after AI layoffs
Senators Chuck Grassley and Dick Durbin are investigating major tech companies, including Amazon, for allegedly hiring thousands of H-1B visa workers after conducting mass layoffs. Data shows Amazon sponsored the most H-1B visas in 2024. Senators allege Amazon blamed AI for tens of thousands of layoffs while hiring over 10,000 foreign H-1B employees in 2025. They question why these companies hire foreign workers when American tech unemployment is high. The senators are demanding information on recruitment practices and salary differences between H-1B holders and American employees, requesting responses by October 10.
AI execs: Trump's $100K H-1B fee could harm startups
Three AI executives express concern that President Trump's new $100,000 H-1B visa fee could hinder startups and innovation. Arvind Jain, CEO of Glean, believes limiting access to global talent undermines progress. May Habib, CEO of Writer, argues the fee creates an advantage for Big Tech, potentially overpowering the startup ecosystem. Suzanne Rabicoff, founder of The Pie Grower, suggests the fee could be an opportunity to develop US talent but acknowledges it may benefit large firms that can afford it. The executives worry the policy could stifle the growth of smaller companies reliant on foreign talent.
Axtria wins AI Service Provider award at Cypher 2025
Axtria Inc. received the Minsky Award for Leading AI Service Provider at Cypher 2025, India's largest AI conference. This award recognizes Axtria's innovative use of artificial intelligence, data science, and analytics in the life sciences industry. Manish Mittal, Managing Principal and Country Head of India at Axtria, stated the award reflects the company's commitment to driving impact through AI. Mittal also moderated a panel discussion on the future of AI-powered innovation hubs in India. Cypher 2025, held in Bengaluru, highlighted excellence in applying AI to solve business challenges.
HR leader uses AI training to manage uncertainty
Chris Walsh, HR director at Select Finishing, is using self-taught AI training to improve efficiency during a period of business uncertainty. With around 400 employees across multiple plants, Walsh has focused on integrating new technologies into HR processes. He is automating data flows and reporting, which frees up his team for more strategic tasks. Walsh believes this 'crash course' in automation and AI is helping the company adapt and optimize its operations despite the challenging business environment.
Saudi Arabia seeks AI partnerships with Asian countries
Saudi Arabia aims to become a hub for artificial intelligence and data centers, according to Investment Minister Khalid Al-Falih. He expressed the kingdom's desire to strengthen ties with Asian nations in the AI field. Al-Falih highlighted Saudi Arabia's low energy costs and its strategic location providing access to the Middle East and Africa as key advantages for attracting AI investment. Riyadh is also set to host the 2030 World Expo.
Cuban: Big Tech backs Trump for AI race advantage
Mark Cuban believes that tech leaders like Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk are aligning with Donald Trump to gain an edge in the artificial intelligence (AI) race. Cuban suggests that while Trump's presidency may be temporary, AI dominance could shape future generations. He points to recent meetings and public statements from tech executives praising Trump's pro-business stance as evidence of this strategy. Cuban argues that securing an advantage in the global AI competition, particularly against China, is a primary motivation for these tech leaders.
HSBC uses quantum computing for bond trading breakthrough
HSBC has achieved a significant breakthrough in bond trading by using IBM's quantum computers to predict bond prices with greater accuracy. This advancement could give HSBC an edge over competitors in the financial sector. Experts view this as a major step in the financial industry's adoption of quantum technology. While the results are promising, HSBC noted that the findings may not generalize to all market conditions. The bank, along with other major financial institutions like JPMorgan and Goldman Sachs, is actively exploring quantum computing readiness.
Sanders warns billionaires' AI investments aim to boost profits
Senator Bernie Sanders is warning that billionaires like Elon Musk and Larry Ellison are investing heavily in artificial intelligence (AI) primarily to increase profits and potentially replace workers. He suggests these investments are not for the benefit of ordinary Americans but to enrich themselves and automate jobs, leading to unemployment. Sanders highlighted concerns about cutting labor costs and the potential consequences for the working class. He is calling for policies that protect workers and ensure the benefits of AI are shared broadly.
The internet enters the Agentic Era with AI agents
A new era of the internet, the 'agentic era,' is emerging, driven by AI agents that act on behalf of users. Companies like Google, Anthropic, and OpenAI are developing the foundational protocols for this new digital economy. These AI agents will handle tasks like booking flights and managing workflows without direct user input. Key developments include Google's Agent2Agent (A2A) for inter-agent communication and the Model Context Protocol (MCP) for connecting agents to backend systems. This shift signifies a move from user-driven apps to agent-driven interactions, potentially transforming digital commerce.
Sources
- Microsoft reduces Israel's access to cloud and AI products over reports of mass surveillance in Gaza
- Microsoft reduces Israel's access to cloud and AI products over reports of mass surveillance in Gaza
- Microsoft reduces Israel's access to cloud and AI products over reports of mass surveillance in Gaza
- Microsoft reduces Israel's access to cloud and AI products over reports of mass surveillance in Gaza
- Microsoft reduces Israel's access to cloud and AI products over reports of mass surveillance in Gaza
- Microsoft reduces Israel's access to cloud and AI products over reports of mass surveillance in Gaza
- Microsoft reduces Israel's access to cloud and AI products over reports of mass surveillance in Gaza
- Microsoft’s BIG blow to Israel, blocks Israeli military access to cloud, AI products over reports of mass…, in…
- Microsoft reduces Israel's access to cloud and AI products over reports of mass surveillance in Gaza
- Microsoft reduces Israel's access to cloud and AI products over reports of mass surveillance in Gaza
- Microsoft cuts Israeli military’s access to some cloud, AI products
- Microsoft reduces Israel's access to cloud, AI products over reports of mass surveillance in Gaza
- Microsoft Reduces Israel's Access to Cloud and AI Products Over Reports of Mass Surveillance in Gaza
- Microsoft cuts Israel's access to cloud, AI products
- Microsoft cuts services to Israel Defense Ministry over Gaza surveillance fears
- Microsoft terminates services for Israeli military after investigation into mass surveillance of Palestinians
- California AI bill inches closer to the finish line
- ‘We have no peers:’ California AI efforts clash with GOP push for hands-off approach
- Gov. Newsom signals support for AI regulation bill
- Amazon blamed AI for layoffs, then hired cheap H1-B workers, Senators allege
- 3 AI execs say Trump's $100K H-1B visa fee could hinder startups and innovation
- Axtria Recognized as Leading AI Service Provider with Minsky Award at Cypher 2025
- ‘Vibe coding’: How one HR leader is optimizing uncertainty with self-taught AI training
- Saudi Arabia aims to work with Asian countries on AI: investment minister
- Mark Cuban says the AI arms race explains why Zuck, Musk, and Dell have cozied up to Trump — and why it may pay off
- HSBC makes a quantum leap in bond trading
- Senator Bernie Sanders warns: There is a reason why Tesla CEO Elon Musk, Oracle’s Larry Ellison and other billionaires are investing in AI…It is not to.. - The Times of India
- From clicks to commands: The internet enters the Agentic Era
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