Google and Meta leave the next Web Summit early.

 

Following backlash from the event's founder's social media comments regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict, Google and Meta have withdrawn from the next Web Summit technology conference.

After reading Paddy Cosgrove's posted article about Western support for Israel, Siemens and Intel also canceled their attendance at the gathering scheduled for next month in Lisbon, Portugal.

Additionally, it has been claimed that Gillian Anderson, an actress, has canceled her scheduled conference speech.

The chief executive of Ireland-based Web Summit, Mr. Cosgrave, apologized in a statement on Tuesday, expressing his unqualified condemnation of the attack by Hamas on October 7.

That came after a contentious post he made on X last Friday in which he stated that he was "shocked at the rhetoric and conduct of so many Western leaders and countries, with the exception, particularly, 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."

In reaction to Hamas atrocities, Mr. Cosgrave said he was urging Israel to act within the bounds of international law.

"I unequivocally support Israel's right to exist and to defend itself," he stated in a later apology. I wholeheartedly back a two-state solution.

"I realize that what I said, when I said it, and how it was presented caused a great deal of damage to many people.

"I sincerely apologize to whomever my statements offended.

I failed to convey the compassion that is required at this moment.

My goal has always been to work toward peace.

"Ultimately, I hope with all my heart that this can be achieved."

We won't be present at the Web Summit anymore.

spokesman for Google

Web Summit tickets start at 1,095 euros for general admission and go up to 24,950 euros for a "chairperson" ticket that comes with a "personal event fulfillment manager" and access to a private lounge. Prices are expected to rise later this month.

The event hopes to draw more than 70,000 attendees, including "companies redefining the tech industry".

Earlier this week, a Google spokesperson announced: "We will no longer have a presence at Web Summit."

It's understood that Meta will also no longer be present at the gathering.

A spokesperson for Siemens stated: "Following recent developments surrounding Web Summit, we have reviewed the situation and determined that Siemens will not attend in 2023."

In a statement, Intel said: "We can confirm that Intel has withdrawn from this year's Web Summit."