Israel ‘war crimes’ comment prompts resignation at major tech conference

The CEO of prominent technology conference Web Summit stepped down this weekend amidst backlash over his criticism of Israeli military actions in Gaza. Paddy Cosgrave’s comments questioning Israeli “war crimes” sparked a mass boycott from tech giants and accusations of anti-Semitism.

Cosgrave, the chief executive of one of the world’s largest technology conferences, had condemned the “rhetoric of so many Western leaders” regarding Israel’s bombardment of Gaza. More than 4,740 people have been killed, including 1,873 children, 1,023 women and 187 elderly people.

In a tweet condemning Israeli war crimes, Cosgrave said: “I’m shocked at the rhetoric and actions of so many Western leaders & governments, with the exception in particular of Ireland’s government, who for once are doing the right thing. War crimes are war crimes even when committed by allies, and should be called out for what they are.”

I’m shocked at the rhetoric and actions of so many Western leaders & governments, with the exception in particular of Ireland’s government, who for once are doing the right thing. War crimes are war crimes even when committed by allies, and should be called out for what they are.

— Paddy Cosgrave (@paddycosgrave) October 13, 2023

But this relatively mild critique prompted a vicious backlash. Former Facebook executive David Marcus accused Cosgrave of “supporting terrorists” and vowed to never again attend the major annual event.

“Saddened by your ill-informed stance. You could’ve taken a more nuanced one, condemning these atrocities and calling for restraint. That would’ve been acceptable. You chose to support terrorists. As such I’ll never attend/sponsor/speak at any of your events again,” Marcus said.

Read: Israel’s seeks emergency law to silence media coverage of Gaza war

As other Big Tech firms like Google and Amazon withdrew sponsorship, Cosgrave apologised and affirmed Israel’s right to self-defence. The pressure campaign successfully ousted the Web Summit founder from the organisation he has led since 2009. His 81 per cent ownership stake remains in limbo.

The incident highlights how critics of Israeli policies face character assassination, harassment and threats to their livelihoods. Calls for adherence to international law are treated as promoting terrorism.

While Cosgrave resigned to save the conference, his personal reputation lies in tatters simply for defending human rights principles. The message to others is clear – toe the line on Israel or pay the price.

This climate of intimidation and censorship chokes open debate on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It enables Israeli impunity while demonising dissent.