Microsoft confirmed that its Azure cloud platform faced interruptions after undersea cables in the Red Sea were damaged. The company said users experienced slower connections as internet traffic through the Middle East slowed.
Microsoft reroutes traffic to limit disruption
Microsoft did not explain what caused the cable damage but said it redirected traffic through alternative routes. 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.
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 due to the fibre cuts.
Monitoring groups report wider outages
NetBlocks, which tracks internet access worldwide, 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.
Authorities investigate possible 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 undersea 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.
