Microsoft disables services to Israel defense unit over reports of mass surveillance in Gaza; all you need to know about tech giant’s big move

In a big move, Microsoft on Thursday (September 26, 2025) said that it has disabled some cloud and AI services used by a unit within the Israeli Ministry of Defense (IMOD). The decision comes after an internal review by the global tech giant found preliminary evidence backing media reports of a surveillance system in Gaza and the West Bank.

The company opened the review after an article by the Guardian alleged activity by a unit of the Israel Defense Forces, Brad Smith, Microsoft’s president, said.