Four underwater communications cables between Saudi Arabia and Djibouti have been knocked out of function in recent months, most likely as a result of attacks by Yemen’s Iranian-backed Houthis, according to an exclusive report in the Israeli news site Globe. The successful targeting of the four cables, which are believed to belong to the AAE-1, Seacom, EIG, and TGN systems, has resulted in a significant disruption of communications between Europe and Asia. The Gulf states and India would bear the brunt of the immediate harm, according to Globes. The AAE-1 cable connects East Asia to Europe through Egypt, and China to the West via Pakistan and Qatar.
In response to attacks, the US, UK, and allies have begun to take offensive action against the Houthis
The Europe India Gateway (EIG) cable system connects southern Europe to Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Djibouti, the UAE, and India. The Seacom cable connects Europe, Africa, and India, and is connected to South Africa. Houthi leader Abdul-Malik al-Houthi addresses followers via a video link at the al-Shaab Mosque, formerly al-Saleh Mosque, in Sanaa, Yemen, on February 6, 2024.
Yemen’s Iranian-backed Houthi movement, which is not the Arab country’s internationally recognized government but controls its most populous segments, has been attacking international trade for months, claiming solidarity with Palestinians as Israel waged war on Hamas in the Gaza Strip. In response to attacks, the US, UK, and allies have begun to take offensive action against the Houthis in recent months, although missile, helicopter, and underwater drone strikes on merchant ships have continued.