Iran Plans to Strike Gulf Undersea Cables if War Resumes, Officials Say

Iran has detailed plans to strike undersea communications cables in the Gulf if the United States and Israel attack again, two senior Iranian security officials told Reuters, warning that no red lines would remain in a renewed conflict. The officials said Iran would aim to prevent repairs after attacks to prolong internet and communications disruptions, with Revolutionary Guards deputy Yadollah Javani citing seven major cables beneath the Strait of Hormuz as potential targets. Less than 1% of international bandwidth passes through the strait, limiting global impact. The threats aim to pressure Gulf states and US companies by endangering their technology investments, analysts said, with officials warning Washington's allies to hold the US responsible for any damage. Red Sea cables, carrying about 3% of global demand, could offer a more significant target if Iran's Houthi allies assist.