Microsoft research finds no coordination between Iranian hackers and Hamas in cyberattacks on Israeli targets

In recent Microsoft research, there is no indication of coordination between Iranian hackers and Hamas in their attacks on Israeli targets during the ongoing conflict. The study suggests that the Iranian cyberattacks have been opportunistic rather than strategically planned in collaboration with Hamas. Despite media speculation about potential cooperation leading up to the 7 October attack by Hamas militants, which resulted in casualties and hostages, Microsoft’s findings indicate a lack of evidence supporting such coordination in the cyber domain.

The research, to be presented at the CYBERWARCON conference, emphasises that Microsoft’s telemetry observations show no pre-planned cyberattacks by Iranian groups, specifically the Ministry of Intelligence and Security (MOIS) and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), aligned with Hamas’ plans at the onset of the Israel-Hamas war. The study underscores that Iranian operators in cyberspace have predominantly been reactive, seizing opportunities as events unfold on the ground rather than engaging in coordinated efforts.

This investigation contributes to ongoing efforts by governments, cybersecurity companies, and other entities to comprehend the nature and extent of cyberattacks’ role in the current conflict, shedding light on the opportunistic nature of Iranian cyber operations amid the hostilities.