, May 17 -- Microsoft has confirmed providing advanced artificial intelligence and cloud services to the Israeli military during the Gaza conflict, including support for efforts to locate and rescue hostages. However, the tech giant insists there is no evidence its technologies were used to harm civilians in Gaza.

In a blog post published Thursday, Microsoft acknowledged its involvement in the war following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack that killed around 1,200 Israelis and triggered a war in Gaza, where tens of thousands have since died. This marks the company's first public statement on its support to Israel's military.

The announcement comes months after an Associated Press investigation revealed Microsoft's previously undisclose...