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NEW YORK (AP) - The fallout from the Israel-Hamas war has reverberated into workplaces across the United States, as company leaders and employees grapple with differing viewpoints and tensions rise over public statements made about the conflict. Both sides of the debate have accused each other of damaging brand reputations, creating an atmosphere of fear, and minimizing the suffering of those affected by the ongoing violence.

Starbucks found itself embroiled in controversy after a union representing thousands of its baristas posted a pro-Palestinian tweet, which the company claimed endangered its employees and harmed its brand. Starbucks filed a lawsuit to prevent the union, known as Starbucks Workers United, from using its name and logo, while the union countersued, accusing Starbucks of defamation and insisting on the right to use the company's name.

Tech conference CEO Paddy Cosgrave faced a backlash and ultimately resigned after making public statements suggesting that Israel was committing war crimes. His remarks prompted a growing boycott of the Web Summit, a prominent European gathering of tech leaders, with major companies like Google, Meta, Siemens, and Intel withdrawing their support.

The Israel-Hamas conflict has also sparked controversy within universities, as CEOs of leading corporations, including Jonathan Neman of Sweetgreen, pledged not to hire students belonging to groups that voiced criticism of Israel. Winston & Strawn, an international law firm, even rescinded a job offer to a student who blamed Israel for the bloodshed in a bulletin message.

Jewish groups have criticized what they perceive as tepid responses or slow reactions from companies to Hamas attacks, such as the recent Oct. 7 rampage that killed 1,400 people in Israel and sparked the latest round of violence. Meanwhile, Islamic rights advocates argue that corporate responses have marginalized the suffering in Gaza, where thousands have died in Israeli airstrikes, and created a climate of fear for workers who wish to express solidarity with Palestinians.

Major corporations with strong ties to Israel, particularly in the tech and financial sectors, have swiftly condemned Hamas attacks and expressed solidarity with Israelis. Companies such as J.P. Morgan Chase & Co., Goldman Sachs, Google, and Meta have released statements, social media posts, and even dedicated corporate earnings calls to support Israel. Many have pledged significant humanitarian aid and outlined efforts to ensure the safety of their employees in the country.

However, the clash over differing viewpoints has left workers feeling unheard and silenced. Employees from various sectors have faced backlash for either speaking out too forcefully or not forcefully enough, making it challenging to find a unifying message amid the deeply entrenched passions on all sides.

The Council on American-Islamic Relations has denounced the backlash against university students and the lack of sympathy displayed by U.S. corporate leaders towards Palestinian civilians. They argue that these reactions isolate Palestinians and those who support their human rights, leaving them fearful of discussing their experiences at work.

As the crisis deepens, more corporate leaders have addressed the situation. Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla expressed horror at the suffering of civilians in Israel and launched a humanitarian relief campaign at his company. Accenture CEO Julie Sweet announced a $3 million donation split between Israel's Magen David Adom and the Palestinian Red Crescent.

The escalating tensions between employees and company leaders have also spilled over into personal lives and social media. Professionals like Isra Abuhasna, a data scientist, fear that expressing their views on the conflict will hinder future employment opportunities. Despite this, individuals like Abuhasna, a Palestinian American, are determined to raise their voices and advocate for the Palestinian cause.

Workplace consultancy experts emphasize the importance of acknowledging both sides of the conflict, urging companies with strong opinions to express them while ensuring they recognize the experiences of others. For those aiming to remain neutral, transparent communication with employees about their reasoning is crucial.

The Israel-Hamas war continues to divide opinions and ignite controversies in workplaces worldwide, highlighting the complex task facing company leaders in navigating these sensitive geopolitical issues while maintaining a productive and inclusive working environment.