Tehran has created plans to target undersea communications cables in the Gulf if the United States and Israel attack Iran again, according to two senior Iranian security officials who spoke to Reuters. They mentioned that undersea cables could be struck in any renewed conflict if diplomatic talks with the U.S. fail. While the officials did not provide specific details on the planned attacks, one noted that Iran aims to make repairs difficult to prolong communication disruptions, including internet services. They stated that if Iran is attacked, there would be no limits to their responses, targeting everything from undersea cables to military bases.
Yadollah Javani from Iran’s Revolutionary Guards indicated that Iran could aim at seven major internet cables under the Strait of Hormuz if Iranian infrastructure is attacked. Undersea cables account for about 99% of global internet traffic; however, the impact of attacks in the Gulf may be less significant as only a small percentage of international bandwidth flows through this area. The Strait of Hormuz connects Iran to the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea.
The Iranian plans reflect a belief that any new U.S. military action would need to be met with a stronger response. Mohsen Rezaei, a top security official, suggested that U.S.-linked digital infrastructure across the Gulf could face threats in a conflict. An Iranian official argued that Gulf allies should hold the U.S. responsible for damage to undersea cables due to its policies.
Experts believe threats of such attacks aim to deter conflict and create pressure on U.S. leaders by making Gulf nations wary of their investments. Possible cable cuts could hinder internet services and impact financial activities. Challenges in restoring connections during wartime could also make repairs complicated. While the Red Sea represents another potential target, Iran has not publicly stated intentions to attack cables there. Gulf states are working on building more resilient internet infrastructure in response to these threats.
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With information from Reuters
