Microsoft Azure Services Disrupted by Red Sea Cable Cuts

Microsoft's Azure, a leading cloud computing platform, has been hit by significant delays as data transmission through the Middle East faces interruptions. The tech giant confirmed that the undersea cables' damage is causing increased latency for Azure services in the region. Although the company has managed to reroute some traffic through alternative paths, the disruption highlights vulnerabilities in global communication networks. Microsoft has not yet disclosed the cause of the cable cuts but emphasized that traffic bypassing the Middle East remains unaffected.

The undersea cable cuts have affected internet services in several countries, including India and Pakistan. The Pakistan Telecommunication Company reported disruptions near Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, warning of potential service issues during peak hours. Such incidents underscore the critical role of undersea cables, often referred to as the internet's backbone, in maintaining global connectivity. These cables are susceptible to damage from natural causes such as ship anchors but have also been targeted in geopolitical conflicts.

This is not the first time undersea cables have been compromised. In February 2024, similar cuts in the Red Sea disrupted internet traffic between Asia and Europe. These incidents followed warnings from Yemen's government about potential sabotage by the Iran-backed Houthi movement, although the Houthis denied any involvement. Beyond the Red Sea, the Baltic Sea has seen a series of suspected attacks on cables and gas pipelines since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Swedish authorities have even investigated potential sabotage in the region.

The recurring incidents of undersea cable damage raise significant security concerns. These cables are vital for global internet connectivity, and their vulnerability presents a strategic risk. As geopolitical tensions continue to influence global networks, ensuring the security and resilience of undersea cables becomes crucial. Companies like Microsoft may need to invest in more robust infrastructure and contingency plans to mitigate the impact of such disruptions in the future.