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About this talk

The evolution of algorithm-driven fighting in Gaza, Ukraine and Lebanon. War has changed: from algorithms that recommend the "best" munition to destroy a structure, to network and pattern-of-life analysis that claims to detect hostile intent in thousands of would-be adversaries, it is clear that AI-enabled war-fighting has irrevocably changed conflict. In this conversation, Nabih Bulos, Middle East bureau chief for the Los Angeles Times, explores the evolution of AI-assisted combat based on his coverage in Gaza, Ukraine, and Lebanon, and its consequences when entire communities are deemed the enemy. Discussions will include how algorithm-driven fighting evolved from the war in Afghanistan to the Gaza conflicts of 2021 and 2023 and into Lebanon; the mechanics of targeting—meaning what information the AI counts when determining who is friend or foe—and the pitfalls inherent in this kind of target analysis; how this supercharged level of targeting and the tools it brings to bear have pushed groups like Hezbollah and the Houthis to adapt; and what it has meant for civilians, drawing parallels with previous examples of overreach in war, including the U.S.'s Phoenix Program.

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