Ships linked to Iran have been observed hovering over subterranean telecoms cables in the Middle East following threats of attack if the US and Israel launch a fresh bombing campaign. At least four vessels tracked by maritime analytics firm Windward were seen taking unusual routes and loitering over subsea cables in the Gulf of Oman. Three were tankers subject to US sanctions, while the fourth was a small Iranian fishing craft that loitered over the Europe India Gateway and Transworld cables between October 21 and 26.
Any attack on these cables would have a major impact on Gulf economies, with six existing cables running through the Strait of Hormuz and three more under construction. The vessels slowed their pace above key infrastructure including the 2Africa and Falcon cables, with some switching off tracking data. Windward noted the pattern "fits the profile of mapping the cable routes, or placing charges or mines on them while dark." Tehran has threatened to target subsea infrastructure in response to potential US attacks, with Revolutionary Guard Corps spokesperson Hossein Mohebbi warning new weapons would be unveiled.
The US has moved additional military assets into the region, including the USS Theodore Roosevelt aircraft carrier. Yadollah Javani, deputy IRGC commander, said assets including internet cables would be damaged in retaliation. Masha Kotkin of CSIS warned that any damage would result in slower internet and financial transactions for Gulf digital activities.
Source: Financial Times Companies · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing