Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly becoming a key component of modern warfare, especially the Iran war, influencing how militaries plan operations, identify targets, and conduct cyber campaigns. The recent U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran have underscored how digital technologies now operate alongside traditional military power, creating a new layer of conflict that extends beyond physical battlefields.
The integration of cyber tools and AI-driven systems during the conflict reflects a broader shift in military strategy. Analysts say advanced algorithms can help process large volumes of intelligence data, improve decision-making speed, and support battlefield operations.
At the same time, the rapid expansion of these technologies has intensified debate among policymakers and legal experts about how such systems should be governed.
International discussions on military artificial intelligence have been gaining urgency. In Geneva, academics and legal specialists are examining proposals to regulate lethal autonomous weapons and set standards for the military purchase and deployment of AI systems. Researchers warn that technological development is advancing far more quickly than global agreements intended to regulate its use.
Artificial intelligence expands its role in warfare
Military organizations have already begun incorporating AI tools into daily operations. According to University of Pennsylvania political scientist Michael Horowitz, the U.S. military uses AI systems based on large language models to assist with logistics planning, intelligence analysis, and battlefield coordination.
One notable platform, known as the Maven Smart System, analyzes images and other data to support tactical decisions. The system can help identify potential targets and prioritize them, potentially accelerating military operations. Although details about its use remain limited, reports have connected Maven to previous conflicts and to operations involving Iran.
Some officials argue that AI could make military actions more precise and reduce civilian casualties by improving targeting accuracy. However, recent conflicts such as those in Ukraine and Gaza suggest that the presence of advanced technology does not necessarily prevent large-scale civilian harm.
Newcastle University researcher Craig Jones said there is currently no clear evidence that AI reduces wrongful strikes or unintended deaths.
Policy disputes and concerns over autonomous weapons
Debate has intensified around the possibility of fully autonomous weapons systems capable of selecting and attacking targets without human involvement. While such technology may offer military advantages, experts caution that current AI systems are not reliable enough to meet international legal standards without human supervision.
Concerns about the limits of AI also surfaced in a dispute between the U.S. Department of Defense and artificial intelligence company Anthropic. Since 2024, Anthropic’s Claude model had been used to support the Maven program under a contract worth about US$200 million.
In January, the Pentagon introduced a policy requiring government AI contracts to permit the use of technology for any lawful purpose. Anthropic declined to remove certain safeguards, stating that its system should not be used for mass domestic surveillance or fully autonomous weapons. On Feb. 27, President Donald Trump ordered federal agencies to stop using the company’s technology.
Cyberoperations add a digital front
Cyberactivity has also played a significant role in the Iran conflict. Reports indicate that digital operations accompanied military strikes carried out on Feb. 28. A breach of the BadeSaba religious application reportedly sent anti-government messages to users, while several Iranian news websites were also targeted.
U.S. officials later stated that cyber- and space-based operations disrupted Iranian communication networks and sensors during the campaign. This proves that AI has, in a certain way, taken over the Iran war.
Security analysts believe Iran could respond with its own cyberactions. The country has long relied on digital operations and proxy groups, and experts warn that critical sectors such as banking, water systems, and transportation could face increased risks as tensions continue to escalate.
