The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps is considering taxing or threatening undersea cables that traverse the Strait of Hormuz [1].
This move targets a critical communication axis connecting the Gulf states, Asia, and Europe. Because these cables carry the vast majority of international internet and financial data, any disruption could destabilize global digital trade and diplomatic communications.
Iranian forces are reportedly seeking to generate additional revenue and exert geopolitical pressure by targeting essential communication infrastructure [1]. The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the most strategic maritime zones in the world, serving as the primary gateway between the Persian Gulf and the Indian Ocean [1].
These threats follow a period of heightened tension in the region. Reports indicate that Iran has already targeted other strategic assets this year. Specifically, a presumed Iranian strike hit fuel reservoirs in Muharraq on March 12, 2026 [2].
Security analysts said that the shift toward targeting data centers and subsea cables represents a new phase of strategic warfare in the Middle East [2]. By focusing on the physical layers of the internet, the Guard can potentially isolate regional economies or demand payments for guaranteed connectivity [1].
International observers said that such actions could prompt a military response from global powers tasked with protecting the freedom of navigation and communication [1]. The vulnerability of these cables is exacerbated by the fact that they are often concentrated in narrow corridors, making them easy targets for sabotage or seizure [2].
“The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps is considering taxing or threatening undersea cables”
The transition from targeting oil tankers to targeting data infrastructure signals an evolution in Iranian leverage. By threatening the digital arteries of the global economy, Iran moves beyond traditional energy blackmail to target the financial and communicative stability of its adversaries, potentially forcing international concessions to avoid a total regional internet blackout.
