Houthi Threats to Undersea Communication Cables

Emerging Risks in Maritime Conflict

The conflict in Yemen has brought new attention to the strategic importance of undersea cables. The Houthi group, which has been targeted by Western airstrikes, is shifting its focus to these critical communication lifelines beneath the sea.

Understanding the Significance

Undersea Cables: These are not just wires in the ocean; they are the backbone of global communications and economy, carrying data and facilitating financial transactions worth trillions of dollars.

Strategic Location: Yemen, and more specifically the Bab el-Mandeb strait, is crucial because it’s one of the few narrow points where these cables pass, making it a potential chokepoint.

Potential Threats

Disruption of Trade: Houthis have been attacking ships, causing major shipping lines to change routes, which could lead to higher costs for goods globally.

Communications at Risk: An attack on undersea cables could cut off internet access and disrupt economies and military communications, which rely heavily on these cables for transferring large amounts of data.

Technological Capabilities

Current Limitations: So far, the Houthis haven’t attacked the cables, likely because they don’t have the advanced naval capabilities required.

Possible Tactics: Even without high-tech equipment, the cables can be vulnerable. For example, divers or mines could potentially be used to damage them.

Global Implications

Wider Repercussions: Any attack on these cables would have far-reaching effects, not just in the immediate region but globally, due to the interconnected nature of modern communications and economy.

Conclusion

The situation in Yemen highlights the delicate nature of global communications infrastructure and the potential for regional conflicts to have worldwide impacts. As the conflict evolves, so does the importance of protecting undersea cables, which are essential for keeping the world connected and economies running smoothly.

SRIRAM’s