Backed into a corner, Iran may unleash hackers, spies, sleeper cells and terror proxies worldwide

Economic Times

21-06-2025

Israel has launched multiple airstrikes against Iran, targeting nuclear sites and key Revolutionary Guard leaders. While Iran's military strength is affected, the country's ability to retaliate using cyberattacks, proxy groups and intelligence networks remains.
Protesters, predominantly Houthi supporters, burn Israeli and U.S. flags as they demonstrate in solidarity with Palestinians and Iran, amid the Iran-Israel conflict, in Sanaa, Yemen June 20, 2025. REUTERS/Khaled Abdullah
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Israeli Strikes Focus on Nuclear and Military Targets
Impact on Iran's Warfare Capabilities
Forward Deterrence as a Strategic Tool
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Quds Force Remains Active
Iran's Global Reach
Cyberattacks as a Response Option
Unconventional Threats Still a Concern
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Israel has carried out a series of strikes on Iran in recent days. These attacks have destroyed parts of Iran's nuclear program and weakened its military defense systems. Despite the losses, Iran is still able to respond using irregular warfare methods that have long been part of its strategy, a The Conversation report said.Israel's airstrikes have damaged two nuclear sites and destroyed several air defense systems. The attacks took place in different cities and reportedly killed 14 nuclear scientists and some top members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. The strikes have also disrupted Iran's missile and drone programs.The strikes have reduced Iran's ability to use traditional military hardware. It may take time before Iran can return to previous levels of uranium enrichment. However, the country still maintains influence through other channels. Iran's use of proxy groups, organized crime links, and cyberattacks could still be used for retaliation, the report added.Iran's military strategy, called 'forward deterrence,' encourages striking threats outside the country's borders. This idea dates back to the 1980s during the Iran-Iraq War. Groups like the Badr Corps were formed under this doctrine. Iran has since developed relationships with groups like Hezbollah and the Houthis to pursue regional goals.Israel reportedly struck a Quds Force command center in Tehran. It is unclear if its leader, Esmail Qaani, survived. Some of Iran's partners like Hezbollah and Hamas have also suffered setbacks. However, Iran's proxy network is still present across the region and can be activated when needed, the report further added.Iran has a history of targeting opponents abroad. These efforts have included kidnappings and assassinations using its Ministry of Intelligence and Quds Force operatives. Several incidents, including attempts in the US and Europe, show the reach of Iran's network. These threats remain even if military strength has declined.Iran has also focused on cyber warfare. Following recent Israeli strikes, a cybersecurity firm observed a sharp increase in malicious activity linked to Iran. These cyberattacks may involve disinformation, sabotage, or data theft. Iran is also using AI tools to spread propaganda and false media during conflicts.While Iran's conventional military is weakened, its ability to conduct irregular warfare remains. The more Iran is attacked directly, the more likely it is to use these hidden methods. Its network of proxies and cyber operatives can respond without warning and pose long-term challenges for Israel and the US.It is a policy where Iran targets threats outside its borders using proxy groups and cyber tools, aiming to prevent danger before it reaches Iranian territory.Iran could use cyberattacks, intelligence operatives, or proxy groups to target Israeli or US assets without direct military engagement.