War Raises New Digital Threat Concerns
The ongoing conflict has triggered a new global concern. Furthermore, reports suggest Iran may target undersea internet cables. Additionally, this strategy appears planned over a long period. Moreover, it connects directly to recent war developments. Consequently, global connectivity faces serious risks. Therefore, the threat extends beyond military action.
Iran Previously Shut Its Own Internet
On February 28, 2026, a key event unfolded. Furthermore, US and Israeli airstrikes began that day. Additionally, Iran reduced its external internet traffic sharply. Moreover, reports show a drop of nearly 99 percent. Consequently, the country isolated itself from global networks. Therefore, this move revealed a larger strategy.
National Network Keeps Iran Connected
Iran operates a domestic system called National Information Network. Furthermore, this system supports internal communication services. Additionally, government platforms and banking continue functioning without interruption. Moreover, the network works independently from global internet systems. Consequently, Iran avoids complete digital shutdown. Therefore, internal operations remain stable.
Domestic Usage Surges During Shutdown
When external connectivity dropped, internal usage increased rapidly. Furthermore, networks like Afranet saw a sudden traffic rise. Additionally, this shift confirmed system readiness. Moreover, the country did not face total blackout. Consequently, Iran maintained internal communication effectively. Therefore, the system acts as a backup shield.
China’s Role in Building Digital Infrastructure
Iran developed this system over many years. Furthermore, the plan began around 2010. Additionally, Huawei played a major role in building infrastructure. Moreover, reports estimate project costs between $700 million and $1 billion. Consequently, equipment entered through complex routes. Therefore, Iran built a strong digital base.
NIN Faces Limitations and Cyber Attacks
Despite strength, the network has limitations. Furthermore, only about 60 percent of NIN remains operational. Additionally, Iran faced over 20,000 cyber attacks in July 2025. Moreover, protests in January 2026 disrupted banking systems. Consequently, challenges still exist within the system. Therefore, improvements continue over time.
Key Global Cable Routes Under Threat
Global internet relies heavily on undersea cables. Furthermore, many cables pass through the Middle East region. Additionally, Iran may target Red Sea and Strait of Hormuz routes. Moreover, Red Sea hosts 17 major cables connecting continents. Consequently, repairs during war become difficult. Therefore, disruptions may last long.
Hormuz Cables Hold Strategic Importance
Strait of Hormuz carries four critical cables. Furthermore, AAE-1, FALCON, Gulf Bridge International, and Tata-TGN Gulf operate there. Additionally, Iran could damage them using underwater methods. Moreover, techniques include mines, anchors, or sabotage. Consequently, global networks face disruption risks. Therefore, damage could impact multiple regions.
Iran Remains Unaffected, Others Face Loss
Iran may avoid damage due to its internal network. Furthermore, NIN will continue functioning domestically. Additionally, other countries may suffer heavy losses. Moreover, US, Europe, and India face potential financial impact. Consequently, global economies may weaken. Therefore, the risk remains significant.
Attacks Expand to Data Infrastructure
The conflict has already targeted digital infrastructure. Furthermore, Iranian drones struck AWS facilities in UAE and Bahrain on March 1, 2026. Additionally, this marked a major escalation. Moreover, Meta paused major cable projects. Consequently, AI infrastructure faces disruption. Therefore, digital systems remain vulnerable.
India Faces Serious Connectivity Risk
India faces a critical vulnerability in this scenario. Furthermore, nearly one-third of westbound traffic passes through Hormuz. Additionally, cable damage could disrupt connectivity severely. Moreover, India lacks dedicated repair ships currently. Consequently, recovery may take longer. Therefore, infrastructure gaps remain concerning.
Urgent Need for Backup Planning
India must strengthen alternative routes quickly. Furthermore, experts suggest diversifying through eastern routes. Additionally, Pacific cables via Singapore can provide backup. Moreover, tech hubs like Bengaluru and Chennai face higher risk. Consequently, proactive planning becomes essential. Therefore, immediate action can prevent major disruption.
