Meta, Google withdraw from Lisbon tech summit over organiser's comments on Israel's actions

Meta and Google have withdrawn from the Web Summit after the organisers criticized Israel's actions following the Hamas attacks. This move follows similar exits by other tech companies and figures, including Intel, Siemens, US comedian Amy Poehler, and X-Files actor Gillian Anderson. A Meta spokesman told AFP that it would not take part in this year’s event.

Last week, Paddy Cosgrave, co-founder of the Web Summit, expressed his shock at the rhetoric and actions of Western leaders and governments on the social media platform X. His comments drew attention to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

In response to these developments, a spokesperson for Meta stated that they would not be participating in this year's Web Summit, and Google also confirmed that they would not be present at the event.

This withdrawal from Meta and Google comes as competition between tech giants intensifies in China, which is Apple's third-largest market. It also coincides with concerns about increasing oversight and security issues in the tech industry.