Iran is considering imposing new fees and restrictions on major submarine internet cables passing through the Strait of Hormuz. This move could directly affect global technology giants such as Google, Microsoft, Meta, and Amazon.
According to reports, Iranian lawmakers discussed a plan last week that would require these companies to pay licensing fees for using the cables. Iranian state-linked media and officials, including military spokesperson Ebrahim Zolfaghari, have openly stated, “We will impose fees on internet cables.” They also want to give repair and maintenance rights exclusively to Iranian companies.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical global chokepoint. It is already vital for oil transportation, and now Iran wants to extend its control to underwater data cables that carry massive amounts of internet and financial traffic between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
Experts warn that any disruption or conflict in this area could cause serious damage to global internet services, banking systems, cloud computing, and digital communications. Countries like India, Gulf nations, and parts of East Africa could face major internet slowdowns or blackouts.
While it remains unclear how Iran plans to enforce these fees due to international sanctions, the threat is being seen as a strategic move to gain more leverage amid rising regional tensions.
The development has raised serious concerns about the security and stability of global digital infrastructure.
