After several Big Tech companies backed out of Web Summit’s upcoming annual technology conference over his comments on the Israel-Hamas conflict, Paddy Cosgrave stepped down Saturday.

In a statement, Cosgrave said, “I regret that my personal comments have distracted attention from the event, our team, our sponsors, our start-ups, and the people attending.” “I apologize again for any harm caused.”

More than a week ago, he posted comments on X, formerly Twitter, condemning Israel’s war in Gaza. “War crimes are war crimes even when committed by allies, and must be called out for what they are.” he wrote on October 13.

During the two weeks since the attacks, Israeli forces have bombed Gaza relentlessly, killing at least 4,385 people, according to the Ministry of Health, resulting in a humanitarian crisis in the Hamas-controlled coastal enclave.

In a post published the day before Cosgrave’s, the Israeli military said it does not target civilians and warned Gaza residents to evacuate.

To clarify his stance, Cosgrave posted a nearly 600-word apology on Web Summit’s blog on Tuesday.

Hamas’ evil, disgusting, and monstrous October 7 attack is unequivocally condemned by me. Furthermore, I urge all hostages to be released unconditionally,” he wrote. There is no question in my mind that Israel is entitled to exist and to defend itself. There is no doubt in my mind that a two-state solution is the best solution. In defending itself, Israel should also adhere to international law and the Geneva Conventions – i.e., not commit war crimes.”

In response to his initial remarks, a number of tech giants withdrew from the conference, including Google parent company Alphabet, Meta, Siemens and Amazon.