Microsoft confirmed that its Azure cloud platform faced disruptions after undersea cables in the Red Sea were damaged. The company said users experienced slower connections as internet traffic through the Middle East was delayed.
Microsoft takes action to limit disruption
Microsoft did not reveal what caused the cable cuts but said it rerouted traffic through other paths. It stressed that services outside the Middle East remained unaffected. Reports during the weekend suggested the problem also struck the United Arab Emirates and several Asian countries.
Global internet relies on seabed cables
Cables on the seabed carry international data and form the backbone of the internet. On Saturday, Microsoft warned that Azure customers in the Middle East might face delays because of the fibre cuts.
Watchdogs report wider impact
NetBlocks, which monitors internet access, reported that several cable cuts disrupted services in India, Pakistan and other nations. Pakistan’s state telecom provider confirmed the damage happened in Saudi waters near Jeddah. It warned that internet services could slow further during peak hours.
Investigators search for causes
Cables often suffer breaks from ship anchors but have also been targeted deliberately. In February 2024, multiple Red Sea cables were cut, disrupting connections between Asia and Europe. That incident followed warnings from Yemen’s recognised government that the Iran-backed Houthi movement might attempt sabotage. The Houthis denied responsibility.
Europe also faces undersea risks
In the Baltic Sea, undersea cables and pipelines have faced repeated damage since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Earlier this year, Swedish authorities detained a vessel suspected of damaging a cable to Latvia. Prosecutors said early findings pointed towards sabotage.
