Microsoft confirmed that its Azure cloud platform experienced disruptions after undersea cables in the Red Sea were damaged. The company said users faced slower connections as internet traffic through the Middle East was delayed.
Microsoft redirects traffic to limit disruption
Microsoft did not specify what caused the cable damage but said it rerouted data through alternative paths. It emphasised that services outside the Middle East remained unaffected. Reports over the weekend indicated that the disruptions also affected the United Arab Emirates and parts of Asia.
Seabed cables crucial for global connectivity
Undersea cables carry most international data and form the backbone of the internet. On Saturday, Microsoft warned that Azure users in the Middle East could experience higher latency due to the fibre cuts.
Internet monitors confirm wider outages
NetBlocks, which tracks global internet access, reported that services in India, Pakistan and other countries were disrupted. Pakistan’s state telecom provider said the damage occurred in Saudi waters near Jeddah. It warned that peak-hour traffic could worsen the delays.
Investigators explore potential sabotage
Cables often break from ship anchors but have also been deliberately targeted. In February 2024, several 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 target cables. The Houthis denied responsibility.
Europe faces ongoing cable risks
In the Baltic Sea, undersea cables and pipelines have repeatedly suffered damage since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. Earlier this year, Swedish authorities detained a vessel suspected of damaging a cable to Latvia. Prosecutors said early evidence pointed to sabotage.
