The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word AMBUSHES
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
A
M
B
U
S
H
E
S
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "attacks" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case attacks = ambushes.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does AMBUSHES mean?
AMBUSHES noun- The act of concealing oneself and lying in wait to attack by surprise.
- An attack launched from a concealed position.
- The troops posted in a concealed place, for attacking by surprise; those who lie in wait.
- To station in ambush with a view to surprise an enemy.
- To attack by ambush; to waylay.