Post on military´s website says IDF engaged in ´intelligence gathering, clandestine operations´; will not hesitate to use cyberspace ´to execute attacks´

A recent post on the Israel Defense Forces´ official website all but admitted the IDF´s use of cyber warfare tactics against Israel´s enemies.

"The IDF defines its activity in cyber space as a platform to improve operational effectiveness and defense," the post said, adding that the Israeli army has been "relentlessly operating in the field."

A new book released in the United States this week linked both the United States and Israel to the string of cyber-strikes which have been plaguing Iran´s computer systems over the past two years.

The Stuxnet, Duqu and Flame cyber-bombs wreaked havoc on the systems controlling Iran´s nuclear facilities, and although Tehran repeatedly blamed the US and Israel for them, Washington and Jerusalem have remained mum.

According to the IDF´s website, the military´s Operations Department had "recently defined the essence of IDF cyber warfare, putting together instructions that define the military´s operational methods in cyberspace and clarify its goals in facing potential enemies."

"Cyberspace is to be handled similarly to other battlefields on ground, at sea, in the air and in space," the statement said.

"The IDF has been engaged in cyber activity consistently and relentlessly, gathering intelligence and defending its own cyberspace. Additionally if necessary cyberspace will be used to execute attacks and intelligence operations."

Part of the military´s operational goal in the area, the post continued, is to "maintain Israel´s quality and advantage over its enemies and prevent their growth and military capabilities, while limiting their operation in this field."

The IDF´s cyber warfare doctrine also stresses "thwarting and disrupting enemy projects which may aim to target the Israeli military and government." (Copyright 2012 © Yedioth Internet 06/04/12)