Abstract

As the significance of cyberspace grows, the legality of cyber operations and automated hackbacks under international law has become a critical issue. This article examines the application of international legal principles to cyber operations, focusing on how they align with the Law of Armed Conflict (LOAC) and existing cybersecurity frameworks. It also explores the controversial nature of automated hackbacks, including their alignment with principles of sovereignty, self-defense, and accountability. The discussion highlights the need for clear international norms to address these evolving challenges, advocating for enhanced cooperation, improved attribution mechanisms, and the development of comprehensive legal frameworks to ensure responsible state behavior in cyberspace.