Microsoft cloud services disrupted after cables severed in the Red Sea
- Users of Microsoft's Azure cloud services are experiencing delays due to severed cables under the Red Sea.
- The cables were cut near Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, affecting internet traffic in the UAE, India, and Pakistan.
- The incident highlights vulnerabilities in global internet infrastructure, emphasizing the potential for significant disruptions.
On September 7, 2025, users in various regions, including the United Arab Emirates and some Asian countries, faced interruptions in Microsoft Cloud Services, particularly the Azure platform. This disruption was caused by severed telecommunication cables located beneath the Red Sea. The cables were reported to have been cut near the Saudi city of Jeddah. In a statement, Microsoft indicated that this damage has led to delays in internet traffic routing through the Middle East. Traffic that steered clear of this region remained unaffected, suggesting that the impact was isolated to affected countries. The incident has raised eyebrows among tech experts and users alike, leading to speculations on the causes of the cable severing. While such occurrences of internet cable cuts typically arise from the anchoring of ships, recent events have highlighted the potential for deliberate cuts in specific geopolitical contexts. Just months prior, there were instances of cables being compromised between Asia and Europe, influenced by threats from Yemeni government factions against shipping lanes in the Red Sea, linked to Iran-backed Houthi rebels. NetBlocks, a firm dedicated to monitoring global internet traffic, confirmed that countries such as India and Pakistan experienced disruptions as well, proving that the effects crossed far beyond the immediate area. Microsoft’s response was aimed at mitigating impact, as they assured users that traffic could still be rerouted albeit with increased delays. Understanding the critical nature of communication channels in today's interconnected world, the incident underscores the fragility of global internet infrastructure. Disruptions in internet service, particularly for major cloud service providers like Microsoft, often resonate on a larger scale, affecting businesses, communication, and overall connectivity. Users and businesses reliant on Azure for essential services may find themselves scrambling to secure alternatives or compensate for anticipated delays. The wider implications of such incidents on international telecommunications are profound as they can hinder operations across multiple sectors and regions.