According to US military doctrine, legitimacy is one of the twelve principles of joint operations. But that concept—legitimacy—is a complex one. How is it defined? How should we understand the ways in which the laws of war, rules of engagement, national policies, and civilian harm mitigation measures overlap—and how they differ? How can rules of engagement and policies change in different missions, theaters, operating environments, and wars? This episode examines those questions and features an insightful discussion with an expert on the subject: Laurie Blank, a clinical professor of law at Emory University School of Law, director of the International Humanitarian Law Clinic, and author of the book International Conflict and Security Law.

Major Jayson Geroux, a Canadian Army officer and urban warfare historian, joins Stuart Lyle, an urban operations research lead for the UK’s Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, to share their holiday wish list for urban warfare. They discuss the critical need for diverse perspectives in urban warfare studies, highlighting gaps in literature and calling for increased military engagement. From advocating for improved training to the integration of tactical drones, they emphasize the importance of equipping soldiers with the right tools and strategies for effective urban combat.

In this gripping conversation, Shlomi Chetrit, head of the Israel Police History and Heritage Branch, recounts the harrowing events of October 7, 2023. With only 110 officers on duty, he details their critical role in defending the Sderot Police Station against a massive Hamas assault. Chetrit reveals the intense tactical preparations and rapid response strategies employed during the siege. He also discusses the complexities of police operations in the Gaza envelope and the importance of community defense mechanisms in Israel's border regions.

Cities' complex man-made terrain, the presence of civilian populations and infrastructure to support those populations, a complicated information environment, and a range of political and other factors make planning for brigade and division urban operations extremely difficult. Too often, militaries rely on a limited set of options—such as the deliberate assault or an effort to bypass cities completely. But history yields lessons on how to overcome the unique challenges of urban warfare. Chief among these lessons is that developing operational approaches to major urban areas requires planners to account for unique, environment-specific considerations. In this episode, Dr. Jacob Stoil—the chair of applied history at the Modern War Institute, an associate professor of military history at the US Army School of Advanced Military Studies, and a senior fellow at the 40th Infantry Division Urban Warfare Center—explores these considerations and details several operational approaches for brigades or divisions in the offense, drawing on historical case studies to illustrate their value.

Explore the fascinating world of underground warfare, from ancient tactics to modern conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. Discover how military forces categorize subterranean spaces and the unique hazards faced by troops below ground. Learn about the evolution of tactics and technology in response to tunnel warfare, while examining specific challenges in urban environments. This discussion delves into strategic implications, environmental risks, and the psychological impact on soldiers operating in these hidden battlegrounds.

Join Major Jayson Geroux, an infantry officer and urban warfare historian, and Stuart Lyle, urban operations research lead for the UK Ministry of Defence, as they unpack the tactical significance of strongpoints in urban combat. They dive into the roles fortified buildings played throughout history, with riveting examples like Pavlov's House. Delve into innovative strategies gleaned from the battle of Mosul and the mechanics of modern weaponry, including fascinating insights on thermobaric munitions and the dynamics of engaging urban defense positions.

Lieutenant Colonel John Chambers, a seasoned engineer officer and commander in the 1st Infantry Division, delves into the pivotal role engineers play in urban warfare. He highlights how essential mobility and survivability functions support combat operations in dense environments. Chambers discusses the unique challenges of using bulldozers in urban combat and contrasts U.S. engineer tactics with those of Russian and Israeli forces. The conversation also covers the complexities of navigating rubble, the significance of reconnaissance, and the dual roles engineers serve in both support and combat.

Retired General David Petraeus, a 37-year veteran of the U.S. Army and former CIA director, shares deep insights into urban warfare. He discusses the evolution of military strategies in densely populated areas, drawing lessons from Iraq and Afghanistan to modern conflicts like Gaza. Petraeus highlights the importance of local partnerships in counterinsurgency, using the Battle of Mosul as a case study. He also examines the complexities of counterterrorism, drawing parallels with threats from groups such as Hamas, Al Qaeda, and ISIS.

Jayson Geroux, a student of urban operations and a passionate urban warfare historian, hosts a riveting conversation with retired Lieutenant Colonel Louis DiMarco, a military history professor and author of "Concrete Hell." They dive into the historical roots of urban warfare, exploring battles from Stalingrad to Iraq. DiMarco shares insights from his urban warfare course and updates for the book's second edition, while also emphasizing the often-overlooked importance of post-conflict reconstruction and narratives in understanding military strategy.

The discussion reveals chilling insights into the October 7 attacks, emphasizing their urban warfare tactics and organized military strategy. It contrasts perspectives from Hamas operatives and Israeli civilians, painting a complex picture of the chaos. Field research in Southern Israel uncovers deep socio-political dynamics and poignant local stories. The bravery of civilians and counterterrorism officers emerges as heroic narratives amid tragedy. Overall, the conversation explores resilience in the face of unspeakable horror and its lasting implications.