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 redirects traffic to maintain service
Microsoft did not reveal what caused the cable damage but said it rerouted data through alternative routes. It stressed that services outside the Middle East remained unaffected. Reports over the weekend suggested that the disruption also affected the United Arab Emirates and parts of Asia.
Undersea cables carry global connectivity
Cables on the seabed transport international data and form the backbone of the internet. On Saturday, Microsoft warned that Azure users in the Middle East could experience higher latency because of the fibre cuts.
Monitoring groups confirm wider impact
NetBlocks, which monitors 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 examine 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 suggested sabotage.
