Palestinians living abroad have accused Microsoft of abruptly closing their email accounts, effectively disconnecting them from crucial online services.

These closures have left them unable to access bank accounts, job offers, and have disrupted their ability to use Skype (which Microsoft owns) to communicate with relatives in war-torn Gaza.

Microsoft claims that these account closures were due to violations of its terms of service.

However, the affected individuals dispute this claim, asserting they were unfairly targeted.

Eiad Hametto, a Palestinian living in Saudi Arabia, expressed how being cut off from Skype was a significant blow for his family.

In Gaza, where internet connectivity is frequently disrupted due to the Israeli military campaign, Skype has become a lifeline for communication.

Some Palestinians suspect that their account closures are linked to perceived ties to Hamas.

Hamas is a group that Israel considers a terrorist organisation, and this suspicion has raised concerns among those affected.

When asked directly about the reason for the account closures, Microsoft did not confirm or deny any specific ties to Hamas.

A spokesperson clarified that Microsoft does not block calls or ban users based on calling region or destination. They mentioned that blocking Skype could occur in response to suspected fraudulent activity.