Which type of war is characterized by irregular forces operating among civilian populations?

Guerrilla warfare is characterized by the use of irregular forces that operate among civilian populations, employing tactics such as ambushes, sabotage, and hit-and-run attacks. This strategy allows smaller, often less-equipped groups to effectively challenge larger, more traditional military forces. By blending in with the civilian population, guerrilla combatants can avoid direct confrontation and utilize the element of surprise, making it harder for conventional forces to locate and dismantle them.

In guerrilla warfare, the interaction with civilians often complicates military operations, as the distinction between combatants and non-combatants becomes blurred. This type of conflict is typically associated with liberation movements and resistance against occupying forces, where the irregular fighters are often fighting for political or ideological goals. Understanding this context is essential because it highlights the asymmetrical nature of guerrilla warfare compared to more traditional forms of combat.