Meta has begun a major round of layoffs, cutting 5% of its workforce, which amounts to approximately 3,600 jobs globally. The layoffs, which commenced today, are described as performance-based, targeting low-performing employees as the tech giant aims to realign its strategies towards artificial intelligence development. Internal memos have indicated that the company is also expediting its hiring process for machine-learning engineers to bolster its talent pool in AI. The layoffs are expected to have widespread impacts, including significant reductions in Silicon Valley and other locations, while some regions may be safeguarded by local labor laws. The decision has generated anxiety among staff, particularly in centers like India and Israel, where many jobs are at risk.