By D. Maan, Jadetimes News
Digital Lives Disrupted
Palestinians living abroad are experiencing significant disruption after Microsoft closed their email accounts without warning. At least 20 Palestinians, who used Skype to communicate with family in Gaza, have been affected, with the total number potentially much higher. Some of these email accounts were over 15 years old, leaving users without access to important emails, contacts, and memories. Microsoft claims the accounts violated its terms of service but has not provided specific reasons, insisting the decision is final.
Impact on Personal Lives
Many affected Palestinians, like Salah Elsadi, used Skype to call family in Gaza, where the internet is frequently disrupted due to the Israeli military campaign, and standard international calls are costly. Elsadi, now in the US, has lost access to job offers and bank accounts tied to his Hotmail account. Despite filling out numerous forms and making many calls, he has received no explanation for the ban. Others have taken to social media to express similar grievances.
Accusations of Unfair Treatment
Some of the affected Palestinians believe they are being unfairly targeted and possibly linked to Hamas, a group designated as a terrorist organization by several Western countries, including the US. Eiad Hametto, calling from Saudi Arabia, and Khalid Obaied, calling from another unspecified location, have voiced their frustration and loss of trust in Microsoft. They insist they are civilians with no political affiliations, only trying to connect with their families.
Microsoft's Response
Microsoft has not directly addressed the accusations of linking users to Hamas. A spokesperson stated that blocking in Skype can occur due to suspected fraudulent activity, without providing further details. Users are allowed to appeal the decision, but many, like Obaied, have lost faith in the company. He believes his ban is solely because he is a Palestinian calling Gaza, expressing a sentiment shared by many others affected by the account closures.
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