Iranian security officials say the country has detailed plans to target undersea communications cables in the Gulf if the US and Israel attack Iran again

The potential for Iran to target undersea cables introduces a new vector of disruption to global digital infrastructure.

Iranian security officials have detailed plans to target undersea communication cables in the Persian Gulf if the U.S. and Israel launch renewed attacks on Iran. According to reports citing individuals familiar with the matter, these attacks would also aim to hinder repair efforts, thereby extending the damage. Yadollah Javani of Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) indicated that Tehran could target seven major cables in the Strait of Hormuz. This development follows claims that the U.S. and Israel have prepared plans for potential strikes against Iran after their upcoming elections in late October and early November. Iran's stance has shifted from a purely defensive posture to a more asymmetric, offensive strategy, with officials warning of broader retaliatory actions against U.S. bases, warships, airports, and civilian infrastructure if attacked. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian also stated that dialogue with the U.S. is contingent on the removal of all threats and sanctions.

The threat to undersea communication cables signals a potential escalation in asymmetric warfare tactics, moving beyond traditional military targets to critical digital infrastructure. This suggests a deliberate strategy to inflict maximum economic and informational damage, impacting global connectivity and financial markets. The targeting of these cables, which are vital for internet traffic and data transfer, could have widespread consequences for businesses, governments, and individuals worldwide, forcing a reevaluation of network resilience and redundancy.

This potential threat highlights the vulnerability of the internet's physical backbone and raises concerns about state-sponsored cyber-physical attacks. Companies operating in the region or relying on communications routed through the Persian Gulf may need to consider enhanced monitoring and contingency plans. The focus on undersea cables indicates a strategic understanding of their critical importance, suggesting that future conflicts could increasingly involve the disruption of digital lifelines as a primary objective.