EPISODE · Dec 30, 2025 · 14 MIN
The Cyber Wars that Weren't
from Insider: Short of War · host Irregular Warfare Initiative
In this episode, we examine the real-world effectiveness of offensive cyber operations in modern warfare. Using the Russia-Ukraine, Israel-Hamas, and Israel-Iran conflicts as case studies, the discussion explores how cyberattacks were timed alongside kinetic operations, the role of hacktivists, and why cyber activity has failed to produce decisive battlefield effects. The episode also highlights key policy, strategic, and operational lessons for future conflicts involving advanced cyber powers.
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What this episode covers
This podcast analyzes offensive cyber operations in modern warfare through three recent conflicts: Russia-Ukraine, Israel-Hamas, and Israel-Iran. Despite early fears of cyber-driven disruption, the evidence shows cyberattacks produced limited strategic impact compared to kinetic operations. The episode explores timing, escalation risks, hacktivist participation, and why cyber is better understood as a supporting or sabotage-style capability rather than a decisive weapon. The discussion concludes with lessons for policymakers, military planners, and cyber practitioners preparing for future conflicts.
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The Cyber Wars that Weren't
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