The morphing terror threat: How AI, younger recruits, and evolving warfare are reshaping terrorism
TERRORISM AFFAIRS: From far-right-jihadist combos, to terrorists acting like militaries, to AI, terrorism has never been harder to defend against, ICT’s new counterterrorism head tells 'Post.'
Terrorism has undergone significant transformations, making it increasingly difficult to analyze and combat, stated Assaf Moghadam, the newly appointed head of the International Institute of Counterterrorism at Reichman University. In an exclusive first interview, Moghadam outlined four key shifts in the nature of terrorism.
First, the rise of artificial intelligence and technology is lowering the barriers to entry for individuals seeking to engage in terrorist activities. While technology has always played a role in enabling terrorists, the advent of AI has further reduced these barriers. Moghadam noted that social media has contributed to radicalization, particularly among younger individuals.
For instance, in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, young people as young as 12 or 13 are now involved in terrorist activities, posing a growing threat.
Second, the landscape of terrorism has become more diverse, with the lines between different ideologies blurring. Moghadam explained that traditional terror organizations like al-Qaeda and ISIS are no longer the sole perpetrators. Instead, there is a broader spectrum of actors, including lone wolves, state-affiliated groups, and informal networks.
This diversification means that terrorism is no longer confined to a single ideology or approach. Moghadam warned that the threat landscape has expanded to encompass far-right, far-left, and jihadist ideologies, all converging in some cases. He cautioned that the emergence of anti-Zionism as a potent ideological force further complicates the situation.
Lastly, the tactics employed by terrorist groups have evolved, blending state-like militancy with increasingly mainstream approaches. Moghadam highlighted incidents such as the takeover of Hamilton Hall at Columbia University and the recent flydubai airline hijacking as examples of this shift. He pointed out that the tactics range from outright violence to more subtle, socially acceptable methods of radicalization and expression.
As terrorist groups adopt strategies reminiscent of state militaries, the threat posed by terrorism has grown more formidable.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
