A prolonged conflict between the United States and Iran could put crucial undersea internet cables in the Persian Gulf and Red Sea at risk, experts said [1]. These cables are essential for more than 90% of the southern Persian Gulf countries' internet connectivity, making the region highly vulnerable to disruptions caused by cable damage [1].
According to the report, damage to multiple undersea cable systems in the region could trigger a “digital catastrophe” and result in multibillion-dollar economic losses for Gulf countries relying heavily on these routes for their digital infrastructure [1]. The outlet emphasized the potential scale of harm, reflecting both economic and connectivity impacts.
The Red Sea area, located beyond the Strait of Hormuz, hosts a dense network of submarine cables, with estimates placing around 15 to 17 major cables passing through these waters [1]. These cables carry more than 90% of data traffic between Europe and Asia, underscoring their global importance [1].
The report noted that Gulf countries would suffer more severe consequences from any cable damage compared with Iran. Tehran relies more on terrestrial, land-based routes for its internet traffic, making it less vulnerable to disruptions along the submarine cables [1].
As tensions between the US and Iran continue, the risk to this critical infrastructure remains elevated. There is no immediate resolution date; the security situation around these key maritime routes will continue to be closely monitored.
