News Science

News Science

International Law and the Implications of Global Privacy Violations by the U.S. Intelligence Community through the Use of Artificial Intelligence:A Comparative Analysis of Iran and Russia

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
1 Corresponding Author: Department of Law, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Golestan University, Gorgan, Iran. E-mail: h.biarjomandi@gu.ac.ir
2 Assistant Professor, Department of Media Management, Comprehensive University of the Islamic Revolution, Tehran, Iran. E-mail: m.alamolhoda@cuir.ac.ir
10.22034/lrsi.2026.553763.1458
Abstract
Objective: The purpose of this research is to examine the role of the United States intelligence community in the recent data-driven war against the Islamic Republic of Iran, drawing a comparison with similar targeted operations against Russian commanders in Ukraine. Specifically, the study investigates the global consequences of violating individuals' right to privacy from the perspective of international law.
Method: This research employed a descriptive-analytical method, focusing on the right to privacy of individuals to examine the actions of the American intelligence community, particularly those leveraging artificial intelligence, in the global violation of this right. Primary sources related to CENTCOM's cooperation with the Israeli regime were reviewed, drawing upon credible scientific reports from think tanks and research centers, as well as official statements and declarations.
Findings: The findings of this research indicate that over the past two decades, the United States has developed data-driven warfare by leveraging artificial intelligence technologies, leading to violations of individuals' privacy in multiple jurisdictions, including Russia and Iran.
Conclusions: The findings of this study suggest that, according to explicit statements made by the US President on November 6, 2025, CENTCOM, under the command of General Erik Kurilla, played a role in the direction and control of the conflict that began on June 13, 2025. This involvement extended to specific operations, including the targeting of several prominent university professors, senior military commanders, and their families in residential and civilian areas. Such actions constitute a flagrant violation of the right to privacy, given the long-term collection and continuous processing of these individuals' personal data.
Keywords

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