APPLICATIONS OF AI IN COUNTERING TERRORISM IN PAKISTAN: A WAY FORWARD

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a transformative technology to serve human interests. It can thus be leveraged to address complex issues like terrorism. This paper aims to determine how we can use AI to mitigate the rising threat of terrorism in the conflict zones of Pakistan, with a particular focus on the provinces of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. The objectives of this research are to develop a framework for conflict zones in Pakistan to implement AI using the provided tools and strategies, which will help regulate efforts to combat terrorism and manage militancy. To balance AI’s innovation and strategy, this paper examines the theoretical underpinnings of the Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI) framework. It is being employed to determine the applications of AI in countering terrorism. In addition, the theoretical framework employs both the Intelligence Cycle and the Diamond Model of CTI to map the enemy's tactics and infrastructure, proactively prevent threats, and, in the event of an attack, manage them. Primary and secondary sources have been used in this research to provide a broader understanding of the topic. The methodology used a mixed-methods approach. Various case studies have been examined in this research to demonstrate and enhance security, stability, and counterterrorism in Pakistan. Findings of this study revolve around the following lines: Firstly, AI can be used for predictive analysis or as large language models in surveillance. Secondly, AI has a huge role in monitoring social media content and tracking the financial activities of terrorist organizations. Furthermore, the study provides recommendations for applying AI tools in different domains of cybersecurity for Pakistan in countering increasing levels of terrorism and reducing the operational capacity of outlawed militant organizations.