APPRAISING THE STATUS OF COMBATANTS AND PRISONERS OF WAR STATUS IN ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TECHNOLOGY IN INTERNATIONAL HUMANITARIAN LAW

This paper examines the evolving role of artificial intelligence (AI) in armed conflict and its implications under International Humanitarian Law (IHL). As militaries increasingly feature AI technologies into warfare, questions arise regarding the applicability of IHL principles—such as distinction, proportionality, and necessity—to autonomous systems. While AI has the potential to enhance operational efficacy and improve targeting accuracy, it also poses significant challenges, including issues of responsibility, ethical considerations, and the risk of unlawful attacks on civilians. The impact of AI on armed conflict necessitates careful scrutiny to ensure compliance with humanitarian standards. Prospective developments in AI warfare underscore the urgent need for robust legal frameworks that adapt to technological advancements while safeguarding human rights. This analysis highlights the necessity for comprehensive legal reviews to address the complications of AI in military operations, ensuring that humanitarian principles remain central to the conduct of armed conflict. Ultimately, ongoing dialogue among legal experts, military leaders, and ethicists is essential to navigate the implications of AI technologies, promoting responsible use in alignment with IHL.