THE DIGITAL BATTLEFIELD: AI, DRONES, AND THE FUTURE OF WARFARE IN GAZA

Abstract

This study examines the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) and drone technologies on modern warfare in Gaza, focusing on Israel's deployment of systems like "Lavender" for automated targeting and pervasive drone surveillance networks. It reveals that AI-driven tools enable rapid data analysis and precision strikes, enhancing military efficiency but at significant humanitarian costs. Lavender’s algorithmic targeting—with a reported 10% error rate—and minimal human oversight blur distinctions between combatants and civilians, leading to disproportionate civilian casualties and psychological trauma. Continuous drone surveillance further exacerbates mental health crises among Gaza’s population, particularly children. The integration of AI with cyber operations (e.g., disrupting communications pre-strike) and tunnel-mapping systems like Exodigo underscores emerging hybrid warfare tactics. Ethically, these technologies challenge adherence to international humanitarian law (IHL), especially principles of distinction, proportionality, and accountability due to algorithmic opacity. The analysis underscores an urgent need for robust legal frameworks, human oversight mandates, and ethical guidelines to govern autonomous weapons, emphasizing that technological supremacy must not compromise fundamental human rights in conflict zones.