Right-wing tech billionaire Peter Thiel has accused Pope Leo XIV of acting as a 'Chinese communist agent' for criticizing artificial intelligence (AI) in a 42,000-word encyclical.Thiel, a co-founder of PayPal and Palantir, claimed the pope's call for strict AI regulation could jeopardize the U.S.'s global competitiveness in advanced technology development.The Pope warned that unregulated AI could heighten the 'risk of dehumanization' worldwide.

Thiel's remarks, made at the Aspen Ideas Festival, echo his long-standing disdain for AI critics, whom he has previously labeled as 'agents for the Antichrist.

' Journalist Christopher Hale noted Thiel's history of linking the Pope to apocalyptic symbolism, including suggesting the pontiff might be a 'manifestation of the Antichrist.

' Thiel also warned of a 'democratic-socialist takeover' of the Democratic Party, citing recent victories by Democratic Socialists of America candidates.

Additionally, Thiel is reportedly considering establishing a political foothold in Argentina under libertarian President Javier Milei, reflecting his broader strategy of diversifying his geopolitical bets.The article highlights Thiel's blend of religious rhetoric, technological nationalism, and political maneuvering.