It can result in considerable damage to human life and complex technological equipment depending on the target—say, perhaps, a nuclear weapons laboratory.

For instance, "an explosion is believed to have damaged Iran's Fordow nuclear facility, which is being used to enrich uranium, Israeli intelligence officials have told The Times [of London]. Sources in Tel Aviv said [Jan. 27, 2013] that they thought the explosion happened [the week before]. The Israeli government is investigating reports that it led to extensive structural damage" ("Iranian Uranium-Enriching Facility 'Is Damaged by Explosion,'" The Times, Jan. 28).

An editorial in The Times defended alleged Israeli cyber strikes: "Iran's nuclear programme is plainly not intended purely to generate electricity. It is a threat to the peace and stability of the Middle East. If not checked, it will spur nuclear proliferation and undermine the credibility of international arms control" ("Beyond Diplomacy: Disrupting Iran's Nuclear Programme by Sanctions and Sabotage Is Wholly Justified" (Jan. 29, 2013). (Source: The Times.)