LEBANON’S STRATEGIC POSITION IN THE AGE OF AI-DRIVEN DEFENSE AND CYBERSECURITY
Keywords:
Lebanon, Non-State Actors, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cybersecurity, Military Strategy, National Security, Cyberattacks, Intelligence Gathering, Geopolitics of the Middle East, CounterterrorismAbstract
The application and integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity technologies are rapidly advancing within Lebanon’s defense and national security sectors. This research investigates how AI can enhance Lebanese military capabilities, with particular emphasis on cyber defense functions and related operational applications. It assesses current and prospective uses of AI in the Lebanese military context, analyzing their strategic, operational, and institutional impacts. The study further examines how AI-powered systems affect military effectiveness, resilience, and threat reduction, identifying capability gaps and operational challenges in deploying these technologies within resource-limited and politically complex settings. Special focus is given to Lebanon’s evolving cyber threat environment, marked by rising exposure to cyberattacks, hybrid threats, and asymmetric security risks. Additionally, the research evaluates the strategic importance of implementing AI-driven solutions in the Lebanese defense sector, while carefully considering ethical issues, governance needs, and institutional preparedness.
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