Lawmakers Urged to Let US Take on 'Offensive' Cyber Role

Analysts Warn Foreign Adversaries Gaining Footholds in US Networks Chris Riotta (@chrisriotta) • January 13, 2026

China and other foreign adversaries are launching persistent, large-scale campaigns against U.S. critical infrastructure with little cost or consequence, cyber policy analysts warned lawmakers Tuesday.

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A panel urged the House Homeland Security subcommittee on cybersecurity and infrastructure protection to overhaul authorities and accelerate offensive cyber operations, arguing that Beijing and other major threat actors view persistent access to sensitive U.S. networks as a low-risk, high-reward component to their geopolitical strategies.

Panelists said the gap has allowed foreign actors to gain footholds across critical infrastructure networks while preparing for potential future conflict with the United States in a move that could hinder an effective counter response.

"The United States is not postured to deter or defeat its adversaries in ...