Demonstrators protesting against Microsoft's business dealings with Israel were arrested at the company's headquarters

Radical employees and supporters of Microsoft Corporation in the United States were arrested after returning to the company's headquarters to stage protests for the second day. They demanded that the software manufacturer cut off business ties with the Israeli military.

This demonstration followed the protest on Tuesday (August 19th), when participants were warned to leave or face charges of illegal intrusion - and they quickly complied. On Wednesday afternoon, protesters gathered again at the headquarters in Redmond, Washington, setting up tents and Shouting slogans.

Bloomberg quoted a statement sent by Microsoft via email as saying: "Today, this group of people reappeared, causing damage and property damage. They also disrupted, harassed and snatched the tables and tents of local small businesses at the farmers' market held for employees during lunchtime."

About an hour after the demonstration began, the police started clearing the area, removing the bicycles that had been piled up as temporary roadblocks and the overturned tables. Several protesters were handcuffed and taken away from the scene with cable ties. One of the demonstrators who had spoken through a megaphone was pinned to the ground by the police and taken away. Another demonstrator was restrained and then carried away from the scene.

According to an email from Jill Green, a spokesperson for the Redmond Police Department, a total of 18 people were arrested on charges such as trespass, vandal, resistance to arrest and obstruction of justice.

Microsoft said in its statement: "Microsoft is deeply grateful and supports the actions of local law enforcement officers and the Redmond Police Department."