๐ฎ๐ท๐ด๐ฒ According to a report by the Financial Times, at least four vessels associated with Iran have been observed in recent weeks making unusual maneuvers near underwater communication cables in the Gulf of Oman.
Data from the maritime intelligence firm Windward indicates that three tankers under US sanctions and another Iranian vessel have reduced speed, changed course and remained for extended periods in areas where cables are laid. Some of them even turned off the identification systems for several tens of hours.
This unusual activity raised concerns that Iran might map the region's communications infrastructure or prepare to damage these assets in the event of a new military conflict. The report comes against the backdrop of direct threats by Iranian officials to damage submarine cables, which serve as an essential communication channel for the Gulf states. Damage to these cables may cause serious disruptions to the Internet, financial services and regional communication systems.