Multiple countries across Asia and the Middle East—including India, Pakistan, and the UAE—are experiencing widespread internet disruptions due to cuts in undersea fiber-optic cables near the Red Sea. These vital cables, which carry a significant portion of regional internet traffic, were damaged close to Jeddah, causing major connectivity challenges.
Internet monitors report that traffic on networks in affected regions, particularly routes through Etilasat and Du in the United Arab Emirates, has been notably disrupted. The unexpected cuts have led to sluggish browsing, failed streaming sessions, and degraded performance for businesses and individual users alike.
Cloud service providers are also feeling the impact. Customers of major platforms, like Microsoft Azure, have reported increased latency and intermittent service interruptions—especially on routes that previously passed through the Middle East. In response, network operators have swiftly rerouted traffic through alternate pathways. While these detours have prevented total service outages, users are now experiencing slower performance on previously seamless connections.
Despite the disruptions, services that do not depend on Red Sea pathways remain stable. Internet and cloud platforms continue to maintain operations by adapting their routing strategies, ensuring continuity for most non-impacted traffic.
The cause behind the cable cuts remains unconfirmed. Officials and tech analysts are working to identify whether the damage stems from physical accidents, maritime activity, or potential intentional interference. Meanwhile, repair crews are expected to assess and mend the cables, though the timing for full restoration remains uncertain.
This incident underscores the fragility of global internet infrastructure and its heavy reliance on undersea systems. Disruptions of this kind highlight the need for more resilient and redundant networks, especially in rapidly digitalizing regions where seamless connectivity underpins day-to-day operations.