Iran threatens to cut undersea internet cables; Hormuz becomes digital chokepoint after oil-shipping blockade

Tehran: US President Donald Trump has indefinitely extended the ceasefire against Iran. Even after this ceasefire announcement, the situation in the Middle East remains extremely fragile. Meanwhile, Iran has issued a serious warning about the security of undersea data cables in the Strait of Hormuz. 

Damage to these cables could disrupt digital connectivity across the Gulf region. Iran's warning comes at a time when similar cable damage has been reported in the Red Sea over the past two years.

What is the buzz?

Reports from IRGC-linked media has drawn renewed attention to the vulnerability of undersea data cables in the Strait of Hormuz, warning that any disruption could impact connectivity throughout the region.

What is the digital chokepoint?

The Strait of Hormuz is considered a vital route for the world's energy supply, but according to the media report, it is equally crucial for digital infrastructure. 

According to the report, the Strait of Hormuz is the world's most important vessel not only for crude oil but also for digital infrastructure. Major cable systems such as FALCON, AAE-1, TGN-Gulf, and SEA-ME-WE pass through this narrow channel. Damage to these cables, either through accident or deliberate action, could lead to massive blackouts in banking, cloud services, and communications systems in countries like the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia. 

According to Iran International's analysis, media report appears to be more of a strategic signal than a neutral assessment. It maps cable routes, landing stations, and data hubs, revealing the potential economic damage from their disruption. Recent reports of drone attacks on Amazon Web Services (AWS) facilities in the UAE and Bahrain have further increased the vulnerability of digital infrastructure.

Does cables from many countries pass through this route?

The report states that several major internet cables pass through or near this route. It also points out that the internet systems of the southern Persian Gulf countries are more dependent on undersea cables than Iran. This report appears to be more than merely informative; rather, it portrays these cables, data centers, and connectivity systems as a tool for pressure in the conflict.

How will communication system affected?

Reports from IRGC-linked media also highlighted the large number of cloud and data centers located in countries like the UAE and Bahrain, suggesting that any impact on these could have significant economic and communication ramifications. This warning is particularly serious given the fact that digital infrastructure has already been attacked in this war.

Recent reports suggest that Amazon Web Services facilities in the UAE and Bahrain were targeted in Iranian drone attacks. This makes it clear that even cloud systems in the Gulf region are not safe. Media report indicates that submarine cables, data centers, ports, shipping routes, and energy facilities are all becoming potential targets in this conflict.