A sharp rise in cyber attacks on satellites and space networks emerged during the Gaza conflict, a new study shows. Researchers counted more than 237 operations targeting the space sector between early 2023 and mid-2025, revealing a growing battle taking place far above the battlefield.
Sharp rise linked to regional tensions
The report from the Center for Security Studies at ETH Zürich found a dramatic spike in June 2025, when Israel and Iran exchanged attacks for 12 days. Seventy-two cyber operations were recorded in that single month, making up nearly one-third of all incidents identified during the study period.
Researchers said the pattern mirrors trends seen during Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, where space assets also became targets.
Targets stretch across defence and space agencies
Almost all identified threat actors were pro-Palestinian groups, with many attacks aimed at Israel’s space and defence industries. Organisations such as the Israel Space Agency, Rafael, and Elbit Systems appeared most frequently on target lists. Even major international bodies, including NASA, faced attempts to breach systems during the same period.
Ten attacks followed shortly after Hamas’s assault on 7 October 2023, as hacktivists rushed to organise and select targets.
Simple attacks, significant pressure
More than 70% of the operations were denial-of-service attacks designed to overwhelm websites. These methods require limited skill and are often used to distract from more complex breaches. Other incidents involved data leaks, intrusions, and attempts to sell stolen information, sometimes timed to major events in the conflict.
A growing front in modern warfare
Although most attacks caused limited physical harm, the study warns that the scale is likely greater than reported. Researchers said cyber operations against space assets are becoming a consistent feature of modern conflicts and urged governments to strengthen protection for vital space infrastructure.