An Israeli military artificial intelligence system identified 850,000 targets in Gaza and Lebanon during the recent conflict, with defence contractor Elbit Systems playing a key role as a supplier, according to a new investigation.
AI-Driven Targeting System
The system, known as 'The Gospel', was used by the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) to generate a vast number of potential targets for airstrikes. The investigation, published by the Guardian, reveals that the AI platform processed intelligence data to produce targeting recommendations at an unprecedented scale.
Elbit Systems, an Israeli defence electronics company, was identified as a primary supplier of components and software for the AI targeting system. The company's technologies are believed to have been integral to the system's ability to process large volumes of data and identify potential threats.
Scale of Targeting
The 850,000 targets represent a significant increase compared to previous conflicts. According to the investigation, the system allowed the IDF to generate targets at a rate far exceeding manual methods. This scale has raised concerns among human rights groups about the potential for errors and civilian casualties.
"The use of AI to automate targeting decisions at such a massive scale is unprecedented and raises serious ethical and legal questions," said a spokesperson for Amnesty International. "There must be transparency and accountability to ensure compliance with international humanitarian law."
Supplier Role
Elbit Systems has not commented directly on the allegations but has previously stated that its technologies are used for defensive purposes. The company is a major supplier to the Israeli military and has contracts worth billions of dollars.
The investigation also highlighted that the system was used not only in Gaza but also in operations against targets in Lebanon. This dual use underscores the regional scope of the AI-driven targeting programme.
Implications
The revelation comes amid growing international scrutiny of the use of AI in military operations. Experts warn that such systems could lower the threshold for conflict and increase the risk of civilian harm if not properly regulated.
"This is a wake-up call for the international community to establish clear rules on autonomous weapons systems," said a UN official. "The potential for AI to be used in ways that violate human rights is a serious concern."
The IDF has defended the use of the system, stating that it enhances precision and reduces collateral damage. However, critics argue that the sheer volume of targets indicates a shift towards a more automated and potentially less discriminate approach to warfare.
