Wicklow hotel cancels 'secretive' Peter Thiel conference

The Powerscourt Hotel Resort & Spa in Co Wicklow has canceled bookings for a planned conference hosted by US tech billionaire Peter Thiel, citing its "secretive" nature. The event, scheduled for August, was expected to draw high-profile attendees, including a senior Nato commander and former Trump administration officials.

The conference was organized by Dialog, an invitation-only group cofounded by Thiel, a cofounder of PayPal and Palantir, a defense contractor known for its surveillance technology and controversial partnership with the Israel Defense Forces. A leaked schedule for the "retreat" revealed discussions on topics such as preparations for a third World War, battlefield technologies, nuclear energy, and cult-building.

A spokesperson for the Powerscourt Hotel confirmed that the publicized event would no longer take place at the venue, declining further comment. The proposed conference had already faced criticism from opposition parties in Ireland, who argued it should not proceed. Activists had also planned a protest against Palantir's involvement with the IDF.

Peter Thiel, a prominent figure in the tech industry and a significant donor to conservative political causes, has often been associated with controversial ventures. His involvement in organizing such a high-level, discreet gathering, reportedly focused on sensitive geopolitical and technological issues, has drawn scrutiny.

The cancellation by the Powerscourt Hotel, a luxury venue, suggests a response to the growing controversy and potential backlash surrounding the conference's agenda and attendees. The hotel's decision highlights the increasing sensitivity around events involving figures like Thiel and companies like Palantir, particularly in light of ongoing global conflicts and technological advancements.

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Powerscourt Hotel Resort & Spa confirms that a publicised event scheduled to take place in August will now not be taking place at the hotel.