"According to various sources, the network disruptions are having a widespread effect. Telecom providers such as Du and Etisalat in the United Arab Emirates confirmed slower internet speeds and disruptions. Countries such as India, Pakistan, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia are also experiencing problems. The SMW4, IMEWE, and FALCON GCX submarine cable systems, which connect crucial internet routes between Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, were reported to be damaged."
"Internet monitor NetBlocks reported disruptions in multiple regions and confirmed that the damage likely occurred near Jeddah in Saudi Arabia, where multiple cable bundles converge. The exact cause is still unclear. Previous incidents in the region have been caused by ship anchors, fishing activities, or in some cases deliberate attacks, leading to speculation about sabotage. The incidents highlight how undersea cables serve as the backbone of global internet connectivity."
"Providers usually ensure redundancy, but physical damage such as this shows how vulnerable digital infrastructure remains, especially in geopolitically charged regions. Repair is also complex. Specialized cable ships must first locate the exact location, then bring the damaged section to the surface and install new sections. This process can take weeks, depending on weather conditions and the availability of ships."
On September 6, 2025, Microsoft reported increased latency for Azure routes through the Middle East after multiple undersea fiber-optic cables in the Red Sea were damaged. Telecom providers including Du and Etisalat reported slower internet and disruptions across the UAE, and users in India, Pakistan, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia experienced problems. The SMW4, IMEWE, and FALCON GCX submarine cable systems were affected, with NetBlocks locating likely damage near Jeddah where cable bundles converge. Causes remain unclear, with possibilities including ship anchors, fishing activity, or deliberate attacks. Repair requires specialized cable ships and can take weeks; Microsoft rerouted affected traffic.
Read at Techzine Global
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