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What Iran’s threats to Hormuz internet cables mean for Gulf

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has threatened to cut crucial internet and communications routes in the region if US aggression escalates.

MIGUEL MEDINA/AFP via Getty Images
This photo taken in La Seyne-sur-Marne harbor on Oct. 7, 2025, shows shows internet cables onboard the "Sophie Germain" cable boat of "Orange Marine." — MIGUEL MEDINA/AFP via Getty Images

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has resumed threats to attack undersea internet cables in the Strait of Hormuz, putting the Gulf’s digital infrastructure at risk as Tehran warns against new US and Israeli strikes.

What happened: The IRGC’s political chief, Brig. Gen. Yadollah Javani, warned Wednesday that Iran could target undersea internet cables passing through Hormuz if the United States or its allies attack Iranian infrastructure.

Speaking to Iran’s Arabic-language Al-Alam television, Javani said US and allied investments could become targets in retaliation.

His remarks followed Monday's warning by IRGC spokesperson Hossein Mohebbi, who drew attention to cables beneath the strait during a speech at Tehran’s Sacred Defense Museum.

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