Microsoft has warned that its Azure cloud service may experience increased latency following several undersea fiber cuts in the Red Sea, which are affecting internet connectivity across Asia and the Middle East. The disruptions have impacted countries such as India, Pakistan, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia, largely due to damage to major cable systems, including SMW4 and IMEWE near Jeddah, as reported by Reuters and NetBlocks.
According to Microsoft, traffic not traversing the Middle East remains unaffected. To maintain service, Azure has rerouted data through alternate paths, and connectivity continues without interruption though some users may notice delayed response times.
The situation highlights the vulnerability of global internet infrastructure, particularly its reliance on subsea cables, which are costly and time-consuming to repair. Microsoft said it is monitoring the issue closely and will provide daily updates or sooner if conditions change. On September 6, many Red Sea subsea fiber optic cables were severed simultaneously, causing disruptions to international communications and internet traffic. Rerouting has increased latency and congestion on essential routes, although the connection is still accessible.
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