Meta and Google Withdraw from Web Summit Over Criticism of Israel’s Actions

Meta and Google have withdrawn from the Web Summit, a significant annual tech event, following criticisms from the event’s organizer regarding Israel’s actions in the wake of the Hamas attacks. Both companies confirmed that they would not participate in this year’s event. The Web Summit is scheduled to host over 2,300 startups and more than 70,000 attendees from November 13-16 in Lisbon.
Paddy Cosgrave, an Irish entrepreneur and co-founder of the Web Summit, expressed his shock at the rhetoric and actions of Western leaders and governments in response to the conflict. He specifically mentioned that war crimes should be called out, even when committed by allies. His statement was made on October 13.
The recent violence began when Hamas militants entered Israel from the Gaza Strip on October 7, resulting in casualties on both sides. Israel claimed that at least 1,400 people were killed on the first day of the raid, primarily civilians. Israel stated that around 1,500 Hamas fighters were killed in subsequent clashes.
The decision by Meta and Google to pull out of the event follows similar actions by other companies and prominent figures in the tech industry, including Intel, Siemens, comedian Amy Poehler, and actor Gillian Anderson. The boycott stems from criticism of the Web Summit organizer’s comments on the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Paddy Cosgrave later issued an apology, expressing regret for the hurt caused by his previous statement. He emphasized the need for compassion and condemned Hamas’s attack on Israel as “evil, disgusting, and monstrous.” He also stated his unequivocal support for Israel’s right to exist and defend itself while calling on Israel to adhere to the Geneva Conventions and avoid committing war crimes.
Read Now:India Introduces Star Labeling for Solar Panels and Promotes Quality and Efficiency