Pope Leo condemns use of AI warfare and the 'spiral of annihilation' it brings

Pope Leo XIV delivered a speech at Rome’s La Sapienza University on Thursday, warning that investments in artificial intelligence and advanced weaponry are pushing the world toward a 'spiral of annihilation.' He criticized the surge in military spending, particularly in Europe, which he said diverts resources from education and healthcare while benefiting elites indifferent to the common good. Leo emphasized the need for greater regulation of AI, stressing that its development must not absolve humans of responsibility for decisions that worsen conflicts. He cited ongoing wars in Ukraine, Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran as examples of how new technologies are exacerbating violence. 'Education and research must prioritize life over destruction,' he declared, urging a shift toward peace and justice. During his visit, Leo met Palestinian students who fled Gaza as part of Italy’s 'humanitarian corridor' program, allowing them to study and receive medical care. Among them was Nada Rahim Jouda, 19, who arrived in Rome two days earlier to study business science. She expressed gratitude for her new opportunities but remains deeply concerned for her family back in Gaza, including her mother battling leukemia and younger sisters displaced by war. The pope highlighted AI as a critical issue for humanity, particularly its role in warfare and everyday life, signaling plans to address it further in his upcoming first encyclical. His speech marked the first papal visit to La Sapienza University since 2008, following protests that canceled a previous engagement. The Italian government, in collaboration with Catholic organizations, has facilitated the relocation of hundreds of Palestinians for education and medical treatment since the Gaza conflict escalated in 2023.