Microsoft confirmed that its Azure cloud platform experienced disruptions after undersea cables in the Red Sea were damaged. The company said users faced slower connections as internet traffic through the Middle East was delayed.
Microsoft redirects traffic to reduce impact
Microsoft did not explain what caused the cable damage but said it rerouted data through alternative paths. It emphasised that services outside the Middle East remained unaffected. Reports over the weekend indicated that the disruption also affected the United Arab Emirates and parts of Asia.
Seabed cables form the internet backbone
Cables on the ocean floor carry global data and are considered critical for international connectivity. On Saturday, Microsoft warned that Azure users in the Middle East could experience higher latency due to the fibre cuts.
Monitoring groups report widespread outages
NetBlocks, which tracks global internet access, reported that services in India, Pakistan and other countries were affected. Pakistan’s state telecom provider said the damage occurred in Saudi waters near Jeddah. It warned that peak-hour traffic could worsen the delays.
Possible sabotage under investigation
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 also faces undersea threats
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.
