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Pope Leo Urges Humanitarian Aid for Gaza and Warns Against Weaponized AI
Speaking to reporters outside his Castel Gandolfo residence on Tuesday evening, Pope Leo issued a renewed plea for international aid to Gaza, emphasizing that human rights must be respected "for everyone".
Addressing the Gaza Flotilla and Civilian Suffering
When asked about activists participating in the Gaza-bound Global Sumud Flotilla—amid reports that some had been blindfolded and handcuffed—the Pontiff asserted that "we must renew our appeal for the respect of the human rights" of every individual.
He expressed deep sorrow over the ongoing plight of civilians, pointing out that "unfortunately, the people of Gaza are still not receiving humanitarian aid". This ongoing deprivation, the Pope noted, "is provoking protests" and leading to further complications, such as the situation involving the Flotilla.
"I would also like to renew this not only as an invitation, but truly as an appeal," he urged, calling upon "all authorities to assist and accompany the people of Gaza, and to help begin reconstruction." He underscored the severity of the crisis, stating, "The people are truly suffering," and noting that they "continue to suffer greatly."
When questioned about the violent reception met by unarmed peace activists, Pope Leo cautioned that such actions only fuel a cycle of animosity. “We are provoking more and more hatred,” he warned, maintaining that "violence does not help. From any side". He insisted that the only way forward is "to return to negotiations" and "to seek, through dialogue, to resolve problems", while strictly "respecting the human rights of everyone".
The Perils of Autonomous Warfare
Turning his attention to technology, the Pope raised concerns regarding the expanding influence of artificial intelligence in contemporary combat, criticizing systems that detach operational decisions from the sanctity of human life.
Pointing to recent conflicts, including those in Lebanon, the Pope observed that today "war is being waged with AI, without thinking about human lives, which are truly victims of all this". Consequently, he reiterated his call for global peace, advocating for the development of what he termed a "disarmed artificial intelligence".
Collaborative Dialogue with Anthropic
Finally, when asked how the Holy See plans to engage with major tech firms following his recent encyclical, the Pope disclosed that productive conversations are already underway.
Specifically, he highlighted a current collaboration between the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development and the AI safety company Anthropic. "There was a kind of joint work," he shared, adding that "the invitation was expressed yesterday by both sides."
Looking ahead, the Pontiff emphasized the necessity of these partnerships. "I think is very important: to continue the dialogue and truly seek a disarmed artificial intelligence," he concluded.
Source - https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2026-05/pope-leo-castel-gandolfo-gaza-aid-respect-for-human-rights.html
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