Slate News What Next: TBD | The Other Iran-Israel War
Jun 27, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Maggie Miller, a cybersecurity reporter for POLITICO, unpacks the high-stakes cyber war between Iran and Israel. She highlights a significant attack on Iran's banking system, revealing the chaos wrought by pro-Israel hackers. The conversation dives into the dynamics of cyber warfare, the psychological implications of these attacks, and the effects of U.S. budget cuts on cybersecurity efforts. With tensions rising, Miller sheds light on the intricate connections between digital conflicts and traditional military actions.
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Predatory Sparrow's Cyber Attack
- A pro-Israeli hacking group called Predatory Sparrow attacked Iran's Bank Zippah and a cryptocurrency exchange.
- Their goal was to cause chaos and disrupt everyday life, not to steal funds.
Cyberwarfare's Ambiguous Impact
- Israel, Iran, and the U.S. all use cyber warfare to create chaos and disrupt adversaries.
- Cyberwarfare remains ambiguous internationally regarding its escalation to physical war.
Israel and Iran Cyber Strengths
- Israel is among the world's best in cybersecurity with strong government and private sector roles.
- Iran is highly sophisticated and uses cyber attacks to send messages and disrupt opponents.