UN experts have expressed deep concern over the reported use of artificial intelligence (AI) by Israel in Gaza, leading to a significant impact on civilians and infrastructure in the region.
The experts highlighted that within six months of the military offensive, Gaza has seen a higher percentage of housing and civilian infrastructure destruction compared to any previous conflict. This destruction has not only caused material damage but has also erased the memories, hopes, and aspirations of Palestinians, limiting their access to basic rights such as food, water, health, and education.
They labeled the widespread destruction of housing, services, and civilian infrastructure in Gaza as a crime against humanity, referring to it as domicide. This term encompasses various war crimes and acts of genocide, according to the UN Special Rapporteur on the Occupied Palestinian Territory.
The alleged use of AI systems by the Israeli military, like Gospel, Lavender, and Where’s Daddy?, has raised serious concerns among experts. The indiscriminate targeting of residential areas, including family homes and power targets, has resulted in a high civilian death toll and extensive property damage.
With more than 15,000 deaths recorded within the first six weeks of the conflict, where AI systems were reportedly crucial in target selection, the experts are particularly alarmed by the impact on civilians. They stress the need for a reparative approach to rebuilding Gaza, emphasizing the legal and moral responsibility of both Israel and other countries involved in the conflict.
The scale of destruction in Gaza, with thousands killed and millions displaced, underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive rebuilding strategy that prioritizes the well-being of affected populations. The World Bank estimates the damage to be $18.5 billion, equivalent to 97% of Gaza’s total GDP, making it clear that a collaborative effort is necessary to address the humanitarian crisis in the region.
