UK court hears trial of man who used AI chatbot to attempt joining ISIS

Mohamed Mohamoud, a 22-year-old Somali man living in the United Kingdom, is standing trial at Winchester Crown Court for allegedly preparing acts of terrorism. The prosecution claims Mohamoud was radicalized through extreme videos on TikTok and YouTube, and subsequently used an AI chatbot to facilitate contact with ISIS members.

Evidence presented to the court indicates that Mohamoud traveled to Somalia in January 2025 with the intention of joining the terrorist group and becoming a ‘martyr’. He was reportedly unable to reach ISIS members due to ongoing counter-terrorism operations and conflict in the region, leading to his return to the UK in March 2025.

While Mohamoud admitted to attempting to join ISIS, he has denied the specific charge of preparing acts of terrorism or intending to assist others in doing so. Prosecutors allege he remained in contact with recruiters after his return, stating he would return to Somalia whenever instructed.