Leaked documents reveal Amazon and Google notify Israel of data requests

Leaked documents have revealed that Amazon and Google, under Israel"s Nimbus cloud contract, have agreed to notify Israel whenever they provide data to foreign governments, even in cases where gag orders prevent disclosure. This arrangement includes a "winking mechanism" where each request results in a symbolic payment to Israel that corresponds with the dialing code of the foreign country involved. For example, a request from the United States triggers a payment of ₦IS 1,000, while a request from Italy results in ₦IS 3,900.

If the disclosure of data is legally prohibited, the companies are required to pay ₦IS 100,000 within 24 hours. Reports from The Guardian and +972 Magazine indicate that this practice may violate U.S. and EU laws that prohibit third-party notifications.

Unlike Microsoft, which terminated its contract with Israel"s Unit 8200 due to concerns over surveillance, Amazon and Google have committed to maintaining Israel"s access to data even if the terms of their agreement are breached. Additionally, both companies have reportedly dismissed employees who opposed their work related to Israel.

For further context on international relations, see recent developments regarding military actions in the region.