Redmond, Wash. — At least 18 people were arrested Wednesday afternoon during a Palestinian protest at Redmond’s Microsoft campus, according to Redmond police.
The group, No Azure For Apartheid, has been protesting Microsoft’s work in suppling artificial intelligence technology to the Israeli military.
Microsoft responded Wednesday saying it’s looking into the use of its Azure platform in Israel. Azure is Microsoft’s cloud based storage software.
“As we have made clear, Microsoft is committed to its human rights standards and contractual terms of service, including in the Middle East,” Microsoft said in it’s statement Wednesday. “The company announced last week that it is pursuing a thorough and independent review of new allegations first reported earlier this month about the purported use of its Azure platform in Israel. Microsoft will continue to do the hard work needed to uphold its human rights standards in the Middle East, while supporting and taking clear steps to address unlawful actions that damage property, disrupt business or that threaten and harm others.”
On Wednesday, the pro-Palestinian protesters poured paint over the Microsoft sign, blocked a pedestrian bridge, and tried to create a blockade, police said.
RELATED:Microsoft employees protest at 50th anniversary party over Israel contract
Protesters gathered Tuesday Aug. 19 and police told KOMO News, they didn’t arrest anyone after responding to reports from Microsoft that the group was trespassing, however Wednesday was a different story.
“Yesterday, approximately 35 protesters gathered and protested on the Microsoft campus. When local police officers informed them that this was not permitted on private property, they left. Today, the group returned and engaged in vandalism and property damage. They also disrupted, harassed, and took tables and tents from local small businesses at a lunchtime farmer’s market for employees. Local police officers made multiple arrests.” said, a Microsoft spokesperson.
Protesters arrested may face charges including trespassing, malicious mischief, resisting arrest, and obstruction.
The Microsoft campus in Redmond is the corporate headquarters of the Microsoft Corporation.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
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