Explainer-The Hormuz digital chokepoint: How does the Iran war threaten subsea cables?
The ongoing conflict in Iran has raised concerns about the vulnerability of subsea cables in the Strait of Hormuz, which are crucial for global internet connectivity. These cables are essential for transmitting data and power, and any damage could lead to significant economic disruptions. The situation is complicated by the risks of military operations, which could inadvertently damage these critical infrastructures.
- ▪Iran has warned that submarine cables in the Strait of Hormuz are vulnerable to attacks, threatening the region's digital economy.
- ▪Subsea cables carry around 99% of the world's internet traffic and are vital for telecommunications and cloud services.
- ▪The ongoing Iran war has already caused disruptions to global energy supply and regional infrastructure, raising concerns about potential damage to subsea cables.
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Explainer-The Hormuz digital chokepoint: How does the Iran war threaten subsea cables?Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inboxVessels in the Strait of Hormuz, Musandam, Oman, April 27, 2026. REUTERS/StringerPublished Apr 28, 2026, 03:43 PMUpdated Apr 28, 2026, 08:33 PMListenDUBAI, April 28 - Iran warned last week that submarine cables in the Strait of Hormuz were a vulnerable point for the region's digital economy, raising concerns about potential attacks on critical infrastructure.The narrow waterway, already a chokepoint for global oil shipments, is equally vital for the digital world.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Straits Times — World.