A potential blockade around key global sea routes - the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea - could pose a serious threat not only to the energy market but also to the global internet.
Experts note that dozens of underwater internet cables pass through these routes. This infrastructure transmits approximately 17-30% of global internet traffic and connects the continents of Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Due to the current tense situation, vessels engaged in cable installation and repair are unable to operate in combat zones. In particular, Alcatel Submarine Networks announced a force majeure situation and temporarily suspended operations within the framework of the large-scale cable project Meta/2Africa Pearls.
Experts believe that if these cables are damaged, it could lead to serious problems on a global scale. In particular, it is possible to observe a sharp decrease in internet speed, disruptions in the operation of banking systems, cloud services, and artificial intelligence platforms.
It is noteworthy that even in calm conditions, the repair of such underwater cables takes up to 5-6 months. Consequently, potential disruptions can have not only short-term but also long-term global impacts.
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