Paddy Cosgrave, co-founder and former CEO of Web Summit, has resumed his position at the company following a six-month break.

Cosgrave's initial departure was due to the backlash from controversial comments he made regarding Israel and Gaza.

Upon returning, he aims to reshape Web Summit events to be smaller and more intimate, despite the conference's large annual attendance of over 70,000 in Lisbon.

He has previously criticized Western leaders for their reactions to Israel's actions in Gaza, except for the Irish government, while also condemning Hamas.

Cosgrave's comeback is seen as a significant move for the future direction of the Web Summit company.