International

The debate over AI’s growing role in cinema has intensified following international attention on Korean film and television, fueled by the global success of productions such as Squid Game and Parasite. Industry leaders are now grappling with how AI-generated scripts, digital actors and automated editing tools could transform — or disrupt — the future of storytelling.&nbsp;According to a recent CNN feature, South Korea’s entertainment industry is increasingly experimenting with AI technologies as studios seek to reduce production costs and accelerate content creation. At the same time, filmmakers warn that overreliance on automation risks undermining the emotional authenticity that made Korean cinema globally successful.&nbsp;Director Park Chan-wook, one of South Korea’s most internationally recognized filmmakers, has voiced caution about the industry’s embrace of AI. Speaking during the 2026 Cannes Film Festival, Park acknowledged that AI could make filmmaking cheaper and more efficient, but questioned whether audiences ultimately benefit from such changes. &nbsp;&nbsp;“AI is here,” actress Demi Moore said at Cannes while discussing broader industry concerns. “To fight it is… a battle that we will lose.” She argued instead for finding ways to work alongside the technology while ensuring creative protections remain in place. &nbsp;&nbsp;The conversation reflects broader tensions across global entertainment industries since the 2023 Hollywood labor strikes, where writers and actors demanded safeguards against unauthorized AI-generated performances and scripts.&nbsp;South Korea’s entertainment sector has emerged as a particularly influential testing ground because of its technological sophistication and global cultural reach. CNN’s new documentary series K-Everything, hosted by Daniel Dae Kim, explores how Korean film, television, music and beauty industries evolved into worldwide cultural forces within a generation. &nbsp;&nbsp;Kim described the series as an examination of how South Korea transformed “from a war-torn third world country to one of the most modern places in the world” in just a few decades. &nbsp;&nbsp;At the same time, AI-generated entertainment is already beginning to appear at major global events. The film “Hell Grind,” described by its creators as the world’s first fully AI-generated feature film, premiered near the Cannes Film Festival this year, signaling how rapidly AI filmmaking tools are advancing. &nbsp;&nbsp;South Korea is also experimenting with AI and robotics in adjacent entertainment sectors. In Seoul, a newly opened robot-themed entertainment park features humanoid robots performing choreographed K-pop routines, underscoring the country’s willingness to merge technology and entertainment in ambitious new ways. &nbsp;&nbsp;Still, many Korean filmmakers argue that human storytelling remains the core of cinema’s appeal. Park Chan-wook noted that Korean cinema’s rise was driven not merely by technology or scale, but by emotionally resonant storytelling capable of connecting with global audiences. &nbsp;&nbsp;Analysts say the challenge for South Korea’s film industry will be balancing innovation with artistic identity. AI tools may streamline production, improve visual effects and lower costs for independent creators, but concerns persist over copyright, authenticity and the future role of human actors and writers.&nbsp;As AI-generated media becomes more sophisticated, South Korea — already a global leader in both technology and pop culture — may become one of the defining battlegrounds over what the future of filmmaking looks like.&nbsp;https://edition.cnn.com/world/south-korea-film-industry-ai-hnk-spc

AI is causing both excitement and anxiety among s directors, actors and producers in South Korea as one of the world’s most influential entertainment markets 

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South Korea's Movie Industry is Embracing AI

May 25 — Pope Leo XIV has issued a warning about the future of artificial intelligence, arguing that rapidly advancing technologies must remain firmly subordinate to human dignity, moral responsibility, and the common good.&nbsp;In a nearly 43,000-word encyclical, the pontiff describes artificial intelligence as one of the defining challenges of the modern era, cautioning that technological progress detached from ethical and spiritual foundations could create a new “Tower of Babel” — a powerful system built on human ambition rather than wisdom.“Humanity, created by God in all its grandeur, is today facing a pivotal choice,” Pope Leo writes in the opening lines of the document, according to Vatican News. The encyclical urges governments, technology companies, and international organizations to ensure that AI development benefits society as a whole rather than concentrating power among corporations, political elites, or a small group of technology leaders.&nbsp;The document attracted global attention during its public presentation at the Vatican, where Pope Leo appeared alongside theologians, senior Vatican officials, and Christopher Olah, co-founder of AI company Anthropic. The event underscored the Vatican’s growing engagement with debates surrounding the social and ethical implications of artificial intelligence.&nbsp;At the heart of the encyclical is the pope’s concern that AI could fundamentally reshape labor markets, warfare, democratic institutions, and human relationships before adequate safeguards are established. He warns that increasingly powerful AI systems could deepen economic inequality, accelerate the spread of misinformation, and weaken authentic human connections if left without meaningful oversight.&nbsp;The pope devotes particular attention to the military use of artificial intelligence, condemning the development of autonomous weapons and algorithm-driven warfare. Such technologies, he argues, risk lowering moral barriers to violence by distancing decision-makers from the human consequences of conflict. Reuters reported that Pope Leo called for AI to be effectively “disarmed,” warning that the normalization of autonomous warfare could make perpetual conflict more likely and less visible to the public.&nbsp;The encyclical also draws historical parallels to Pope Leo XIII’s landmark 1891 encyclical Rerum Novarum, which addressed the social upheaval created by the Industrial Revolution. Pope Leo XIV argues that artificial intelligence represents a similarly transformative technological shift, one that demands new protections for workers, vulnerable communities, and those at risk of economic displacement.&nbsp;While acknowledging AI’s potential to advance medicine, education, scientific research, and public services, the pope rejects the notion that technological innovation is inherently beneficial. “Technology is never neutral,” the document states, emphasizing that AI systems inevitably reflect the values, incentives, and priorities of the individuals and institutions that create them.&nbsp;The Vatican’s intervention comes at a pivotal moment in global AI governance. Policymakers worldwide are struggling to keep pace with advances in generative AI, while concerns over job displacement, surveillance, misinformation, cybersecurity, and autonomous weapons continue to grow. At the same time, technology companies are investing billions of dollars in increasingly sophisticated AI systems, intensifying calls for stronger oversight and international regulation.&nbsp;The encyclical signals that the Vatican intends to play an active role in shaping the ethical debate surrounding artificial intelligence. Since the beginning of his papacy, Pope Leo has repeatedly warned that digital technologies risk reducing individuals to passive consumers, weakening human relationships, and undermining the spiritual dimensions of life. He has also cautioned religious leaders against relying on AI-generated sermons or digital substitutes for genuine pastoral engagement.&nbsp;As governments and companies race to develop increasingly powerful AI systems, the Vatican’s message adds a moral dimension to a debate often dominated by technical and commercial considerations. The central question raised by the pope is not whether artificial intelligence can transform society, but whether humanity can ensure that transformation remains aligned with human values.

Pope Leo XIV calls for ethical AI governance, warning against autonomous weapons, misinformation, inequality, and threats to human dignity.

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Pope Leo XIV calls for AI to be Effectively “Disarmed” 

The verdict, delivered in a California federal court after less than two hours of jury deliberation, rejected Musk’s claims that OpenAI abandoned its founding nonprofit mission in pursuit of corporate profit and investor enrichment. Jurors concluded that Musk had filed the case too late under applicable legal deadlines, effectively dismissing the claims on procedural grounds. &nbsp;&nbsp;Musk, who co-founded OpenAI in 2015 before leaving the organization in 2018, alleged that Altman and OpenAI President Greg Brockman violated the company’s original principles by transforming the organization into a profit-driven AI powerhouse backed by billions in investments from Microsoft. Musk claimed he donated tens of millions of dollars to support OpenAI’s humanitarian mission and argued the company later shifted toward commercial ambitions without honoring those commitments. &nbsp;&nbsp;OpenAI’s legal team countered that Musk had long been aware of the company’s evolving business structure and accused him of pursuing the lawsuit for competitive reasons, particularly after launching his own artificial intelligence venture, xAI. Lawyers for OpenAI argued that the lawsuit was part of a broader effort to slow a rival in the rapidly intensifying AI race. &nbsp;&nbsp;The trial drew widespread attention across Silicon Valley and the global technology industry, exposing internal disagreements, governance disputes, and personal tensions among some of the most influential figures in artificial intelligence. Testimony during the proceedings included criticism of Altman’s leadership style and questions surrounding OpenAI’s governance practices. Despite prevailing in court, analysts say the company may still face reputational scrutiny following weeks of public courtroom disclosures. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Analytical Review: This verdict is important because it does far more than resolve a personal dispute between Elon Musk and Sam Altman. By dismissing Musk’s claims against <a href="https://openai.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com">OpenAI</a>, the court effectively removed a major legal obstacle that could have slowed the company’s restructuring, fundraising, and expansion plans. The case also highlighted a deeper tension at the center of the AI industry: whether advanced AI systems should remain mission-driven public-interest projects or evolve into highly commercialized corporate platforms backed by massive investors like <a href="https://www.microsoft.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com">Microsoft</a>. The public testimony exposed concerns about transparency, governance, and concentration of power in AI development, issues that regulators and governments worldwide are increasingly scrutinizing. Even though OpenAI won legally, the trial intensified public debate about whether companies developing transformative AI technologies can balance ethical responsibilities with enormous commercial incentives. The ruling therefore has implications not only for OpenAI’s future valuation and competitiveness, but also for broader questions about accountability, trust, and control in the global AI race.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/elon-musk-loses-lawsuit-against-openai-2026-05-18/">https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/elon-musk-loses-lawsuit-against-openai-2026-05-18/</a>

A U.S. federal jury has ruled against Elon Musk in his high-profile lawsuit against OpenAI - highlighting deeper tensions in AI industry

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Analyzing Elon Musk Lawsuit Loss Against OpenAI 

Researchers, academicians, scholars, and students are invited to participate in the upcoming International Conference on Islamic Studies and Contemporary Research organized by the <a href="https://www.iirdglobal.com?utm_source=chatgpt.com">Interdisciplinary Institute for Research &amp; Development (IIRD)</a>. The conference aims to create a global academic platform for discussing emerging trends, interdisciplinary perspectives, and contemporary issues related to Islamic Studies and allied disciplines.The conference will gather researchers, educators, and professionals from different countries to exchange innovative ideas, present scholarly work, and strengthen international academic collaboration. Participants will benefit from keynote lectures, paper presentation sessions, panel discussions, and networking opportunities with experts from various academic and professional backgrounds.The organizer, <a href="https://www.iirdglobal.com?utm_source=chatgpt.com">Interdisciplinary Institute for Research &amp; Development (IIRD)</a>, is an international academic and research organization dedicated to promoting high-quality research, innovation, and scholarly collaboration across multiple disciplines. IIRD regularly conducts international conferences, seminars, workshops, and academic development programs aimed at supporting researchers, faculty members, and students worldwide. Through its academic initiatives, the institute encourages interdisciplinary dialogue and provides opportunities for researchers to publish and present their work on global platforms.Scholars and interested participants are encouraged to submit their research papers and complete their registration through the official conference website.Registration Link: <a href="https://iirdglobal.com/events/index.php?id=100876081&amp;utm_source=ica&amp;utm_medium=organic">Register for the Conference</a>Important Dates:<ul><li>Paper Submission Deadline: 14 May 2026</li><li>Registration Deadline: 19 May 2026</li><li>Conference Dates: 3–4 June 2026</li></ul>For additional details regarding participation, paper submission guidelines, and conference schedules, participants may visit the official conference page.

Researchers, academicians, scholars, and students are invited to participate in the International Conference on Islamic Studies and Contemporary Research

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int. Conference on Islamic Studies and Contemporary Research

Centre for Contemporary Jurisprudence (Fiqh)

Coinciding with the Tehran Book Fair, the latest scientific works of the Center for Contemporary Jurisprudence (Fiqh) on contemporary topics are being offered with a 25% discount and free shipping.&nbsp;The Center for Contemporary Jurisprudence has made a collection of its latest scientific and research works available to the public at the Tehran Book Fair.&nbsp;Among the featured works, the following books can be highlighted:"Al-Faiq fi al-Usul""Al-Raid fi al-Usul""Al-Amr bil-Ma'ruf" (Commanding Right)"Al-Shakhs al-I'tibari" (The Legal Person)"Jurisprudence of Cryptocurrencies" (the book featured in the image)"The Trial of ChatGPT in the US Congress""Artificial Intelligence Accountability"&nbsp;Additionally, dozens of other titles in Persian and Arabic in the fields of ijtihad and contemporary jurisprudence are being showcased at the exhibition.&nbsp;At this year's book fair, online shopping is available, and buyers can purchase their desired books with a 25 percent discount and free nationwide shipping.&nbsp;It is worth noting that the sale of works in the virtual book fair started on May 16&nbsp; and will continue until May 23 2026.&nbsp;&nbsp;Those interested can access the book purchase page via the provided <a href="https://book.icfi.ir/book?exhibitorId=4229&amp;publisher-name=">link</a>.

Coinciding with the Tehran Book Fair, the latest scientific works of the Center for Contemporary Jurisprudence on contemporary topics are being offered.

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Works of the CCJ at the Tehran Virtual Book Fair

Algiers, Algeria&nbsp;– The International Society for Applied Research (ISAR) has announced the upcoming&nbsp;International Conference on Islamic Ethics and Moral Philosophy (ICIEMPY-26), scheduled to take place on&nbsp;1–2 October 2026&nbsp;in Algiers, Algeria. The event will be accessible both in person and online, offering participants around the world the flexibility to attend and engage with the latest scholarship in the field.&nbsp;ICIEMPY-26 aims to bring together the global academic community—including researchers, scholars, industry professionals, and public sector experts—to explore cutting-edge developments in Islamic ethics and moral philosophy. The conference programme is designed to provide attendees with access to the most recent research insights, opportunities to disseminate their own work, and meaningful networking experiences to accelerate their careers. A rigorous editorial and peer-review process ensures that only the highest‑quality proposals are selected for presentation, benefiting both speakers and participants.&nbsp;The conference will feature a diverse range of session tracks covering foundational and emerging areas within Islamic studies, philosophy, and religious studies. Topics include the foundations of Islamic ethics, virtue ethics in Islamic thought, Sharia and ethical frameworks, Islamic bioethics, and environmental ethics in Islam. In addition to paper, poster, and abstract presentations, attendees can look forward to keynote speeches, talks, Q&amp;A sessions, and workshops. The organisers have placed a strong emphasis on cross‑disciplinary collaboration and sustainable development, aligning the conference with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and highlighting themes such as quality education, decent work, and reducing inequalities.&nbsp;Organised by ISAR, the conference serves as a dynamic platform that bridges the gap between academia and industry, fosters innovative research solutions, and empowers a global community to contribute to impactful, transformative research. Researchers, academics, and practitioners are encouraged to submit their work and join this highly anticipated event to showcase their contributions and engage in stimulating discussions.&nbsp;Registration and DeadlinesInterested participants can register online via the official registration portal:➡&nbsp;Registration Link:&nbsp;<a href="https://isar.org.in/event/registration.php?id=101122307&amp;utm_source=ica&amp;utm_medium=organic">https://isar.org.in/event/registration.php?id=101122307&amp;utm_source=ica&amp;utm_medium=organic</a>&nbsp;Key deadlines to note:<ul><li>Early Bird Entry Deadline:&nbsp;1 September 2026</li><li>Abstract Submission Deadline:&nbsp;11 September 2026</li><li>General Registration Deadline:&nbsp;16 September 2026</li></ul>For the latest updates on the conference programme, session tracks, and submission guidelines, please visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://isar.org.in/event/index.php?id=101122307&amp;utm_source=ica&amp;utm_medium=organic">conference homepage</a>&nbsp;regularly.

The International Society for Applied Research (ISAR) has announced the upcoming (ICIEMPY-26) in Algeria 

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ISAR to Host International Conference on Islamic Ethics

The Centre for Islamic Thought and Education (CITE) has announced the 9th Annual Australian Islamic Schooling Conference (AAISC9), scheduled to take place on August 15–16, 2026, at the University of Adelaide, Australia. This year’s theme, "Islamic School Renewal: Tarbiyah of the Educator and the Inward Turn Toward Outward Impact," shifts the focus of institutional improvement from policy and structure to the spiritual and professional formation of the educator.&nbsp;At the heart of the conference is the concept of tarbiyah—a holistic process of human formation that integrates the physical, intellectual, and spiritual dimensions. The 2026 program asserts that meaningful change within Islamic schools must begin with the "inward turn" of teachers and leaders, recognizing that their personal character (ta’dib) and inner refinement (tazkiyah) are the primary catalysts for outward educational impact.The conference will serve as a collaborative space for scholars, educators, and policymakers to re-anchor teaching practices in Islamic epistemology. Key sub-themes include:<ul><li>The Murabbī: Exploring the educator’s spiritual and moral formation as a prerequisite for teaching.</li><li>Curriculum as Tarbiyah: Moving toward coherent, purpose-led designs that nurture the whole student.</li><li>Leadership as Amanah: Redefining school governance through the lens of ethical clarity and sincerity.</li><li>Future Innovations: Navigating digital life and Artificial Intelligence through a foundation of tarbiyah-grounded ethics.</li></ul>Key Information and Deadlines The conference invites researchers and practitioners to contribute to these vital discussions. Those interested in presenting are encouraged to take note of the upcoming submission window.<ul><li>Conference Dates: August 15 – 16, 2026</li><li>Location: Bonython Hall, The University of Adelaide, South Australia</li><li>Abstract Submission Deadline: May 15, 2026</li><li>Notification of Acceptance: May 29, 2026</li><li>Full Program Release: July 15, 2026</li></ul>Registration and Contact Registration is now open for educators, community partners, and researchers. For those traveling to Adelaide, preferential accommodation rates are available at select local hotels.<ul><li>Official Registration Link: <a href="https://events.humanitix.com/9th-annual-australian-islamic-schooling-conference-islamic-school-renewal-tarbiyah-of-the-educator-and-the-inward-turn-toward-outward-impact">9th Annual Australian Islamic Schooling Conference</a></li></ul>

The Centre for Islamic Thought and Education (CITE) has announced the 9th Annual Australian Islamic Schooling Conference (AAISC9) to take place on August 2026

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9th Annual Australian Islamic Schooling Conference 

This high-level assembly will bring together over 2,000 delegates, including finance and economy ministers, central bank governors, and leaders from international financial institutions to address the most pressing development challenges facing the Islamic world.&nbsp;Under the theme "Regional Integration for Sustainable Prosperity" the 2026 summit serves as a cornerstone for the IsDB’s new Ten-Year Strategic Framework (2026–2035). The program will focus on building shock-resistant economies through enhanced cross-border cooperation, digital transformation, and green growth initiatives.Key Highlights and Agenda:<ul><li>The Private Sector Forum (PSF): A dedicated platform for networking, exploring investment opportunities, and establishing B2B and B2G partnerships across 57 member countries.</li><li>Strategic Seminars: Discussions will cover the evolution of the global Sukuk market, the integration of Artificial Intelligence in regional digital economies, and sustainable project financing.</li><li>Global Collaboration: High-level dialogues will focus on food security, supply chain resilience, and climate-related economic disruptions.</li></ul>As a bridge between Eastern and Western markets, the host city of Baku provides a strategic backdrop for discussions on the "Middle Corridor" and the future of trade logistics within the IsDB regions.&nbsp;Registration and ParticipationOfficial registration is now open for all eligible participants, including government officials, private sector executives, and representatives from academia and civil society.<ul><li>Event Dates: June 16 – 19, 2026</li><li>Location: Baku, Azerbaijan</li><li>Registration Deadline: Prospective attendees are encouraged to complete their registration by June 5, 2026, to ensure access to all closed-door sessions and networking events.</li><li>Official Registration Link: <a href="https://am.isdb.org/">IsDB Group Annual Meetings 2026</a> If you have any questions, you can also comment below to get the answer.</li></ul>

The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group has announced that its 51st Annual Meetings will be held from June 16 to 19, 2026, in Baku, Azerbaijan.

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51st IsDB Group Annual Meetings to Convene in Baku

Iran

The Supreme Leader’s foresight in 1989 regarding the necessity of using modern technologies for the development of Islamic sciences has gained new significance today, as artificial intelligence increasingly shapes global scientific transformation. A path that began with the establishment of the Noor Center is now being pursued as a major national strategy focused on indigenous knowledge production, scientific authority, and positioning among the leading countries in AI for the future of Islamic sciences and national progress.&nbsp;According to ILNA news agency, Hojjatoleslam Mohammad Hossein Bahrami, head of the Noor Islamic Computer Research Center, speaking at the “Ummat Mab‘uth” media pavilion in Qom, said:“The divine awakening and the presence of the people in the field were exactly what the Supreme Leader had predicted earlier, and the people acted correctly based on the teachings they had received from the leadership. What occurred appears to have been something rare and extraordinary — a nation rising up and remaining continuously active for more than sixty days.”He added:“In my view, this event is unique and can only be attributed to the divine upbringing, foresight, and accurate predictions of the Supreme Leader. Up to this point, victory has belonged to our people — a victory resulting from the insight and foresight of our martyred Imam. We hope that Almighty God grants our people even greater victories under the leadership of Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei”.&nbsp;The Blessing of Leadership and the Foundation of Islamic CivilizationThe head of the Noor Center stated:“Throughout the Revolution, especially during the leadership of our martyred leader, God granted our people a tremendous blessing: a wise leader who, with profound foresight and penetrating vision, laid the foundations of an Islamic civilization.”He emphasized that the late leader’s view of religion was not limited merely to ritual worship:“He was both a religious and political leader, viewing religion as the path to humanity’s salvation in this world and the hereafter. The roadmap he designed for the country was based on this profound vision.”&nbsp;A Memory About the Establishment of the Noor CenterBahrami then shared a story illustrating the late leader’s technological vision and future-oriented thinking:“In 1989, the first year of the Leader’s leadership, a group of seminary students and university students attempted to use computers — which at the time were scarce and very primitive in public perception — for work related to hadith and rijal studies.”He continued:“They presented the initial results of their work to the Supreme Leader. In the very first meeting, he instructed them to prepare a plan for establishing a center and continuing this path. A few weeks later, when they presented their proposal, he said this work was extremely important — meaning the use of computers in the development of Islamic sciences — and emphasized that every day of delay in this path would cause damage and loss.&nbsp;Foresight in the Use of TechnologyBahrami noted:“Today, in the year 1405 (Iranian calendar), such a statement may not seem surprising. But in 1989, even many prominent thinkers and intellectuals lacked the foresight to understand how deeply this technology would influence human life, scientific development, and especially Islamic sciences.”He explained that more than three decades of work at the Noor Center have continued under the Leader’s support:“This center is one of the legacies left for us by the martyred leader.”He also emphasized that the center was founded directly under the Leader’s supervision, and in its early years, the Leader himself served as chairman of the board of trustees — demonstrating his deep concern for this field.&nbsp;Scientific Movement and Knowledge as PowerBahrami referred to the saying of Imam Ali (AS), “Knowledge is power”, and said:“The Leader believed that if we seek power, dignity, independence, and a bright future, we must seriously pursue knowledge, because knowledge is the instrument of power in today’s world.”&nbsp;Scientific Acceleration and Overcoming Historical BackwardnessHe added:“Another major emphasis was the scientific movement and knowledge production. During the era of dictatorship, our country fell nearly one hundred years behind in science while the world advanced and we merely became consumers of others’ achievements.”He said Iran later experienced periods where scientific growth increased dramatically, at times becoming one of the fastest in the world, thanks to the Leader’s guidance.&nbsp;Indigenous Knowledge ProductionBahrami stressed that the late leader opposed being merely consumers of foreign science:“We should not simply repeat discoveries made elsewhere with delay and teach them to our students. We must produce indigenous knowledge ourselves.”He cited examples such as: &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;nuclear science, &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;nanotechnology, &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;stem cells, &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;missile industries, &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;and other scientific fields where Iran became a producer rather than just a consumer.&nbsp;Useful Knowledge That Serves SocietyHe also emphasized the Leader’s focus on beneficial knowledge:“Sometimes scientific institutions pursue metrics that do not truly benefit society. We can become trapped in article-writing or title-seeking while failing to solve the real needs of our people.”The Leader, he said, consistently insisted that science must have practical benefit for society.&nbsp;Iran as a Global Scientific AuthorityBahrami said another key objective was achieving global scientific authority:“The Leader wanted Iran to become a reference point for science and technology — to the extent that anyone seeking the frontiers of knowledge would need to come to Iran and even learn Persian.”He described this not as an unreachable dream, but as a realistic and achievable goal.&nbsp;Artificial Intelligence as a Strategic AxisBahrami explained that alongside science in general, the Leader placed special emphasis on artificial intelligence as a strategic priority:“Digital technologies, especially AI, are now among the most important drivers of scientific growth and global transformation.”He warned that delays in AI development could repeat the historical scientific backwardness experienced during industrialization.&nbsp;Concern Over Western Misuse of AIBahrami stated:“Western civilization used the scientific advances it gained during previous eras to exploit many Islamic and oppressed nations. There is concern that the same pattern could be repeated with artificial intelligence.”He added:“Although the West outwardly emphasizes ethics in AI development, we should not be deceived by appearances. It is possible this knowledge will once again be used in the service of colonial ambitions.”&nbsp;AI in Modern WarfareReferring to recent wars, he said:“The wars in Gaza, the Twelve-Day War, and the Ramadan War — and the use of AI in killing people — demonstrated that the Leader’s predictions were correct, and that the West has used AI to advance its ambitions.”&nbsp;Future Vision and AI in Islamic SciencesBahrami expressed hope that AI would be used properly across all sectors:“As the martyred leader emphasized, by deeply understanding the layers of this technology, we should become one of the top ten AI-developing countries in the world.”He also noted that in Islamic sciences, progress has already begun:“Today at the Noor Islamic Computer Research Center, multiple AI-based tools, systems, and chatbots have been developed for hadith studies and Islamic resources.”&nbsp;He concluded by expressing hope that this movement would continue strongly and consistently under the leadership of Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei enabling the country to reach the peaks of progress and raise the banner of Islamic and Iranian dignity across the world.

Concerns Over Western Misuse of Artificial Intelligence / How the Martyred Leader’s Support Paved the Way for Digital Transformation in Islamic Sciences

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Reflections on the Noor Islamic Computer Research Center

This article compares major Shia-oriented AI chatbots, their features, strengths, weaknesses, and future potential.&nbsp;Why Shia-Specific AI Chatbots EmergedGeneral AI systems such as ChatGPT, Gemini, or Grok are trained on broad internet datasets. Because of this, they may: &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mix Sunni and Shia interpretations &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Provide weak or fabricated narrations &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Misrepresent Shia beliefs &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lack understanding of marja-based jurisprudence &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Generate hallucinated fatwas&nbsp;To solve these issues, developers created specialized Shia AI assistants trained on curated Shia databases such as: &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Al-Islam.org &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nahjul Balagha &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Tafsir al-Mizan &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bihar al-Anwar &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sistani rulings &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Shia hadith collections&nbsp;⸻1. Ahkam-AIOverviewAhkam-AI is one of the most focused Shia jurisprudence assistants available today. It is built around the rulings of Ali al-Sistani and developed with support from Hadi TV. &nbsp;Main Features &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Specialized in Shia fiqh &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Based exclusively on Ayatollah Sistani’s rulings &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fast question-answer interface &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Educational guidance for daily issues &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Minimal hallucination risk due to narrow scopeStrengths &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Highly focused and consistent &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Good for practical religious rulings &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Less doctrinal confusion &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Easier for followers of SistaniWeaknesses &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Limited to one marja’s opinions &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Less effective for theology or philosophy &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Not suitable for advanced academic researchBest For &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Everyday fiqh questions &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Prayer, fasting, purity, and worship rulings &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Beginners seeking practical guidance⸻2. Al-Islam AI AssistantOverviewThis assistant is trained on the massive library of Al-Islam.org, one of the largest English-language Shia repositories online. It emphasizes privacy and “hallucination-free” answers. &nbsp;Main Features &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Conversational search through Shia texts &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Uses classical and modern Shia works &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Includes tafsir, hadith, theology, and history &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Natural language interactionStrengths &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Rich scholarly database &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Excellent for research and learning &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Broad Shia intellectual coverage &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Strong source groundingWeaknesses &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Can still oversimplify complex theology &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Requires users to verify citations manually &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Less useful for personalized fatwasBest For &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Students of Shia Islam &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Researchers &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Comparative theology &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Historical questions⸻3. WisQu AIOverviewWisQu markets itself as the “first Shia AI chatbot.” It emphasizes verified answers, reduced fabrication, and religious authenticity. &nbsp;Main Features &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Large database of religious Q&amp;A &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Source-backed responses &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Claims “96% accuracy” &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Handles both simple and advanced questionsStrengths &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Strong user-friendly design &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Broader conversational ability &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;More interactive than rule-based systems &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Better contextual understandingWeaknesses &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Accuracy claims are difficult to independently verify &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Limited transparency about training methods &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Potential for AI hallucinations still existsBest For &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;General users &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Interactive religious learning &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Multi-topic Islamic discussions⸻Ask Ayatollah Overview This mobile app focuses on the rulings and teachings of Ayatollah Sistani and provides quick AI-powered responses for daily religious matters.&nbsp; &nbsp;Main Features&nbsp;<ul><li style="margin-left:0px;">Mobile-first experience&nbsp;</li><li style="margin-left:0px;">Instant answers&nbsp;</li><li style="margin-left:0px;">Simplified explanations&nbsp;</li><li style="margin-left:0px;">Source citations</li></ul>Strengths&nbsp;<ul><li style="margin-left:0px;">Easy accessibility</li><li style="margin-left:0px;">Simple interface&nbsp;</li><li style="margin-left:0px;">Good for younger users</li></ul>Weaknesses<ul><li style="margin-left:0px;">Limited depth&nbsp;</li><li style="margin-left:0px;">Smaller knowledge base&nbsp;</li><li style="margin-left:0px;">Primarily introductory</li></ul>Best For&nbsp;<ul><li style="margin-left:0px;">Casual learners&nbsp;</li><li style="margin-left:0px;">Mobile users&nbsp;</li><li style="margin-left:0px;">Youth audiences</li></ul>⸻ 5. hyder.ai Overview Hyder.ai was introduced as an AI model trained specifically on Shia Islamic teachings with over 300,000 data points from Shia Ithna Ashari sources.&nbsp; Main Features&nbsp;<ul><li style="margin-left:0px;">Exclusive Shia training data&nbsp;</li><li style="margin-left:0px;">Focus on theology and ethics&nbsp;</li><li style="margin-left:0px;">Community-driven improvement</li></ul>Strengths&nbsp;<ul><li style="margin-left:0px;">Pure Shia-centered training&nbsp;</li><li style="margin-left:0px;">Strong doctrinal alignment&nbsp;</li><li style="margin-left:0px;">Community enthusiasm</li></ul>Weaknesses&nbsp;<ul><li style="margin-left:0px;">Limited public documentation&nbsp;</li><li style="margin-left:0px;">Smaller ecosystem&nbsp;</li><li style="margin-left:0px;">Experimental stage</li></ul>Best For<ul><li style="margin-left:0px;">Early adopters&nbsp;</li><li style="margin-left:0px;">Community testing&nbsp;</li><li style="margin-left:0px;">Specialized Shia discussions</li></ul>Key Challenges Facing Shia AI Chatbots 1. Religious Authority AI cannot replace qualified scholars (maraji or mujtahids). Many Muslim communities warn against taking religious rulings directly from AI systems.&nbsp; A chatbot may summarize rulings, but:&nbsp;<ul><li style="margin-left:0px;">many argue it does not perform ijtihad,&nbsp;</li><li style="margin-left:0px;">cannot understand every personal circumstance,&nbsp;</li><li style="margin-left:0px;">and may produce incorrect conclusions.</li></ul>2. Hallucinations Even specialized AI models can fabricate: on hadith references, Qur’anic citations, historical events, or scholarly opinions. This is a major issue in religious contexts where accuracy matters deeply 3. Sectarian Bias General Islamic AI systems often default to majority Sunni sources. Shia chatbots emerged partly to preserve doctrinal accuracy and avoid misrepresentation.&nbsp; 4. Ethical and Spiritual Concerns Some scholars and online Muslim communities warn against overdependence on AI for spirituality. Users are encouraged to:&nbsp;<ul><li style="margin-left:0px;">verify sources,&nbsp;</li><li style="margin-left:0px;">consult scholars,&nbsp;</li><li style="margin-left:0px;">and treat AI as an educational assistant rather than an authority.&nbsp;</li></ul> Conclusion Shia-based AI chatbots represent an important technological development in modern Islamic education. Platforms like Ahkam-AI, WisQu, Al-Islam AI, and hyder.ai attempt to combine traditional Shia scholarship with modern conversational AI systems. Their biggest advantage is accessibility: users can instantly explore Shia teachings, jurisprudence, and history in a conversational format. However, these systems remain tools—not replacements for qualified scholars. The most effective use of Shia AI chatbots is as: • educational assistants, • research helpers, • and gateways to authentic scholarship. &nbsp;As AI technology improves and Shia datasets expand, these systems are likely to become more accurate, multilingual, and deeply integrated into Islamic learning worldwide

Several specialized AI Shia Muslim based chatbots have emerged that focus on Shia theology, fiqh, hadith, Qur’anic interpretation and teachings of Ahlul Bayt