In episode 25 of the Cybersecurity & Geopolitical Discussion, our expert panel, CYJAX Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) Ian Thornton-Trump, CD, Philip Ingram, MBE, of Grey Hare Media, and Lisa Forte of Red Goat Security, pull apart the rapidly deteriorating situation in the Middle East. Unsurprisingly, a key focus is on the recent audacious pager and walkie-talkie attacks analysed through a strategic and humanitarian lens. Lisa also takes you on a journey to Central Asian Countries to uncover the differing tensions and attitudes towards the US, Europe and Russia following her summer visit to the region.

Big bang theory

We kick off with our experts reviewing the recent detonation of booby-trapped communication devices targeting Hezbollah in Lebanon. Our panel emphasise why making any assumptions about how the attack was carried out is ill advised, with many theories in the media, such as the cyber angle and the explosion being related to lithium batteries, both being quickly debunked. 

Having set the scene, the discussion delves into the pros and cons of the strategy from a military and humanitarian perspective, placing it in the context of similar past events, such as the exploding mobile phone assault on a senior Hamas official back in 1996. 

Middle East Escalation, Humanitarian Law and Disinformation – Episode 25

In episode 25 of the Cybersecurity & Geopolitical Discussion, our trio of hosts pull apart the rapidly deteriorating situation in the Middle East.

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Crime or no crime?

Our panel vigorously debate where the Lebanon incident falls in terms of international law. Legal expert Lisa points out that the UN Treaty prohibits the booby trapping of “harmless” objects, while Phil argues that the attack is more carefully targeted and likely to cause less collateral damage than any kind of bombing campaign. 

Discussing whether the event could be categorized as a war crime, the panel explain the inconsistency of international law, the contrasting stances of different countries from the US to Ukraine, and the difficulties of bringing people to justice.

Tales from the edge

We wrap up with a trip to Central Asia, as Lisa recounts her fascinating recent travels across Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. Their citizens’ contrasting views on global events are both stark and eye-opening, as is their attitude towards neighbor Turkmenistan. Lisa’s revelations stoke the debate among Phil and Ian about the current disinformation epidemic worldwide.   

Tune in to gain a fascinating insight into Middle East instability and beyond!

Until next time, stay safe and secure…