Potential threat to Western internet cables in the Red Sea

Saana, 7 February, 2024 (TDF): Recent warnings from telecom firms associated with the UN-recognized Yemen government suggest that Houthi might be planning to sabotage a network of submarine cables in the Red Sea.

These cables are crucial to the functioning of the western internet and the transmission of financial data. The concerns escalated after a Houthi-linked Telegram channel published a map detailing the cables running along the bed of the Red Sea, suggesting strategic importance due to the proximity of internet lines connecting continents.

Yemen Telecom has made diplomatic and legal efforts to dissuade global telecom alliances from engaging with the Houthis, fearing that providing them with knowledge of submarine cable operations could pose a security risk. The Red Sea carries about 17% of the world’s internet traffic along these vulnerable fiber pipes, making them potential targets for disruption.

The General Telecommunications Corporation of Yemen condemned the threats, highlighting that as many as 16 submarine cables pass through the Red Sea toward Egypt, including the critical Asia-Africa-Europe AE-1 cable, spanning 15,500 miles (25,000km) from southeast Asia to Europe via the Red Sea.

Also Read: US-UK launch joint military attacks on Houthis, what has happened so far?

Security analysts at the Gulf Security Forum suggest that while the Houthis’ technological limitations have kept the cables safe thus far, their threats remain concerning. Although lacking advanced submersibles, the Houthis could pose a risk as some cables run at depths of 100 meters, making them accessible without sophisticated equipment.

In response to escalating tensions, American forces conducted airstrikes against Houthi missiles in Yemen, including land attack and anti-ship cruise missiles. This follows previous joint military actions by the US and UK forces in response to Houthi attacks on shipping in the Red Sea. The Houthis’ targeting of Red Sea shipping, allegedly in support of Palestinians in Gaza, has triggered retaliatory strikes and heightened regional tensions.

The situation underscores the broader geopolitical implications of regional conflicts and their potential to disrupt global communication networks and trade routes. As the international community navigates these challenges, diplomatic efforts and coordinated responses remain crucial in mitigating threats to critical infrastructure and maintaining stability in the region.