From US policy to global threats, AI's rapid evolution sparks debate and concern

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence is sparking significant global debate and strategic policy shifts. In the United States, President Donald Trump recently announced plans to establish an "AI Force" and appoint an "AI czar" to oversee the technology's development, likening it to the Space Force and emphasizing the need to identify harmful uses while fostering industry growth. This initiative comes as the U.S. Department of Defense has also outlined a 2026 AI Acceleration Strategy focused on rapidly integrating AI into military operations to create an "AI-first" warfighting force.

Meanwhile, China is advocating for robust global AI governance, pushing back against warnings from some U.S. industry figures that it views as an attempt to maintain American technological advantage. Beijing stresses the importance of international cooperation to ensure AI benefits humanity and remains under control, while also highlighting the technology's crucial role in its military competitiveness and overall national security.

The dual-use nature of AI, which allows for both beneficial and malicious applications, is starkly underscored by recent reports of its exploitation by terrorist organizations. A University of Cambridge study revealed in September 2026 that ISIL-affiliated groups, including Boko Haram factions, are routinely employing commercial AI chatbots for operational planning, constructing explosives, resolving combat issues, and clandestine communication. These groups have even established dedicated AI units, indicating a sophisticated integration of AI into their operations, a trend that United Nations officials have also warned about.