In this episode of The War Lab, we tackle one of the most complex and consequential forms of modern conflict: counterinsurgency and urban warfare. Far beyond traditional battlefield engagements, counterinsurgency (COIN) blends political, military, economic, and social strategies to not only defeat armed resistance but also to win legitimacy in the eyes of the population.

We begin with the fundamentals—what makes an insurgency thrive, the common strategies insurgents employ, and why vulnerable populations, weak governance, and effective leadership are the essential ingredients for rebellion. From there, we explore how the global operational environment—shaped by urbanization, technology, climate stress, and religious and political tensions—creates fertile ground for insurgencies and unique challenges for governments.

A focal point of the discussion is Israel’s recent experience in urban combat. We unpack how the IDF has adopted unprecedented measures to minimize civilian harm in Gaza, from mass warnings and evacuation efforts to real-time population tracking and humanitarian aid delivery during operations. At the same time, we confront the paradox: how these precautions complicate battlefield dynamics and are exploited by insurgents to prolong conflicts.

Turning to U.S. doctrine, we analyze the “clear-hold-build” framework and the seven lines of effort that underpin COIN operations, along with the tactical playbook of raids, patrols, population control measures, and site exploitation. Technology is transforming these missions, with augmented reality systems, counter-drone tools, and AI-driven targeting platforms redefining how forces fight in dense, contested urban terrain.

But at the heart of counterinsurgency is the human element. Success depends on cultural understanding, trusted local networks, and effective partnerships with host-nation security forces. As the doctrine emphasizes, “whoever the population supports has the advantage.”

This episode brings together doctrine, technology, and real-world case studies to reveal the enduring truth: in counterinsurgency and urban warfare, legitimacy, restraint, and trust are just as decisive as firepower.