The US-Israel-Iran conflict is currently escalating 💣

(approximately in the third week now)
Beyond Iran's threat to blockade the Strait of Hormuz and embargo oil,
🤯 Iran has also played its "second card" — cutting submarine internet cables
‼️ Iran's warning: If Gulf states (UAE, Saudi Arabia, etc.) continue providing military bases to the US military, or if the US continues taking action against Iranian territory, Iran may attack/sever submarine cables passing through the "Strait of Hormuz and Red Sea."
These cables are critical conduits for Middle Eastern data centers (AI hubs), banks, and global data flow, accounting for approximately 17% of global internet traffic.
Why target this area?
The geographic location is too critical: almost all major cables connecting Europe-Asia-Middle East-Africa must pass through here.
If actually cut, the Middle East region in the short term (especially UAE and Saudi Arabia) would suffer severe damage, and portions of global finance, AI computing, and cross-border data would experience lag or delays.
Historically: In 2024, Red Sea cables were cut several times by Houthi forces, which resulted in partial routes between the Middle East and Europe/Asia being slowed for several months.
Current status: Only a threat, no actual action yet.
Iran hasn't actually cut anything so far; it's more of a "strategic deterrence" — attempting to pressure Gulf states to draw a line between themselves and the US.