'Allah helped us, AI will help us too': Artificial intelligence, the new obsession of terrorist groups

Terrorist groups, especially Islamist factions, are significantly increasing their exploitation of artificial intelligence, moving beyond mere propaganda generation to more sophisticated applications. Recent reports highlight that AI is now being used to help plan assaults and impart combat techniques to militants.

This evolving use of AI by extremist organizations has prompted concerns about the potential for these advanced technologies to be weaponized. Researchers from institutions like Cambridge University have documented this trend, noting a substantial conversion to AI among jihadists in recent years.

According to a report by Antonia Juelich, an expert on terrorism and technology at Cambridge, approximately thirty former Boko Haram members revealed their use of AI during their time with the group between 2022 and 2025. Many of these individuals held command or technical specialist roles within the organization, suggesting a strategic integration of AI into their operations.

The findings are based on extensive interviews, indicating that AI is becoming an indispensable tool for terrorist groups seeking to enhance their operational capabilities and effectiveness in planning and executing attacks.