Story perspectives

Major Internet Disruptions: Submarine Cables Damaged in Red Sea

9/12/2025

Summary

Story summary

Submarine data cables, which carry over 99% of global internet traffic, are susceptible to damage.
Recent disruptions in the Red Sea, caused by a ship anchor, impacted connectivity in Asia and the Middle East.
Damage to three major cables—SEA-ME-WE 4, IMEWE, and FALCON GCX—resulted in latency issues for users, including Microsoft Azure.
The International Cable Protection Committee identified nearly 15 cables in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait as vulnerable to maritime accidents.
Repairs are expected to take weeks, further complicated by regional conflicts, underscoring the need for protective measures.

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Story summary

Submarine data cables, which carry over 99% of global internet traffic, are susceptible to damage.
Recent disruptions in the Red Sea, caused by a ship anchor, impacted connectivity in Asia and the Middle East.
Damage to three major cables—SEA-ME-WE 4, IMEWE, and FALCON GCX—resulted in latency issues for users, including Microsoft Azure.
The International Cable Protection Committee identified nearly 15 cables in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait as vulnerable to maritime accidents.
Repairs are expected to take weeks, further complicated by regional conflicts, underscoring the need for protective measures.