Legal Protection of Medical Professionals in Armed Conflicts: Challenges in the Era of Autonomous and AI‑Driven Warfare — A Case Study of Pakistan’s Disputed Areas

Abstract

The protection of medical professionals in armed conflicts is a cornerstone of international humanitarian law (IHL), ensuring that doctors, nurses, and humanitarian personnel can provide care without fear of attack. However, the emergence of autonomous weapon systems (AWS) and AI-driven warfare presents unprecedented challenges to these protections, particularly in complex and disputed regions such as Pakistan’s Line of Control (LoC) and former tribal areas. This study examines the legal framework safeguarding medical personnel, analyzes the implications of AI and autonomous systems on core IHL principles such as distinction, proportionality, and precaution, and explores the risks posed to medical neutrality in technologically advanced warfare. Using a doctrinal and case-study research design, the paper evaluates both international law and Pakistan-specific conflict contexts, highlighting gaps in enforcement, accountability, and operational safeguards. Key findings indicate that while formal IHL protections remain applicable, the use of autonomous and AI-enabled systems significantly increases risks to medical personnel, undermines human judgment in targeting decisions, and creates accountability gaps. The study concludes with recommendations for strengthened human-control obligations, enhanced operational protocols, and binding legal instruments to preserve medical neutrality in the era of AI-driven conflict