An expert has described any attempt by Iranian forces to cut internet cables in the Strait of Hormuz as a 'suicide mission' due to the likely US military response. The proposal, floated in Iranian state-linked media Tasnim and Fars, suggests charging US tech companies for using the undersea cables that traverse the strategic waterway. However, the plan is fraught with legal and practical challenges.
The Proposal
Tasnim's proposal has three main components: first, charging foreign companies licence fees for using the subsea cables; second, requiring technology giants like Meta, Google, Amazon, and Microsoft to operate under Iranian law, likely through joint ventures; and third, monopolising the repair and maintenance of these cables. The media outlet claims this could generate hundreds of millions of dollars annually, citing Article 34 of the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea as legal justification.
Legal and Practical Hurdles
Experts question the feasibility. Unlike Egypt, which charges fees for cables crossing its territory, the cables in the Strait of Hormuz do not pass through Iranian land or territorial waters; they lie miles offshore. Doug Madory of Kentik notes that extracting tolls would require threats, an unprecedented approach. Additionally, sanctions and the inability to segregate traffic from specific companies complicate enforcement.
Military Risks
Cutting the cables would be a 'suicide mission' due to constant US air patrols. Iran lacks the technology for covert cuts, and overt actions would provoke a strong response. Cable cuts are typically accidental, and repair ships would avoid operating under fire, potentially prolonging disruptions.
Impact on Global Internet
While disruptive to Gulf internet traffic, a cut would have limited global impact, as these cables primarily serve Gulf countries. Iraq and Iran have alternative overland connections. Cable cuts are common and repairable, but threats to repair ships could cause extended outages.
