AI Leaders Advocate for Development Slowdown; Iran-Gulf Talks Delayed

Why it matters locally: Texas's burgeoning tech sector, particularly in cities like Austin and Houston, could be indirectly affected by a national slowdown in AI development, potentially impacting investment and job growth in the state.

SAN FRANCISCO – Prominent figures within artificial intelligence companies have called for a slowdown in the development of AI technologies. This appeal coincides with a setback in diplomatic efforts between Iran and Persian Gulf nations, as scheduled talks in Oman have been delayed. Demonstrators participated in a "Stop the AI Race" protest march in San Francisco, California, on July 11, 2026. Protesters made stops outside the offices of OpenAI, Anthropic, and Google DeepMind, companies active in artificial intelligence development. Separately, diplomatic discussions aimed at fostering improved relations between Iran and several Persian Gulf countries, planned for Oman, have been postponed. Officials did not immediately provide reasons for the delay.