Lawmakers discuss new regulatory and licensing framework
Iran is considering a proposal that could impose charges on submarine internet cables passing through the Strait of Hormuz, according to reports citing discussions within the country’s political and security circles.
Reports indicate that lawmakers in Tehran recently reviewed a plan that may affect undersea communication lines connecting Arab countries with Europe and Asia. Under the proposed framework, authorities could introduce fees for cable operations and establish additional regulations governing their use.
Iranian military spokesperson Ebrahim Zolfaghari also stated on social media that authorities intend to introduce charges related to internet cable infrastructure.
Additionally, reports suggested that companies with investments in regional submarine cable systems, including major global technology firms, could fall within the scope of future regulations. However, uncertainty remains regarding whether all relevant cables pass through Iranian territorial waters.
Analysts raise questions over implementation and global impact
Meanwhile, observers and analysts have questioned how Iran could enforce any proposed fee structure on international companies operating under existing legal and financial restrictions.
Furthermore, strict sanctions already limit direct commercial transactions involving many major international firms and Iranian institutions. Consequently, some analysts believe the proposal may represent a broader political message rather than an immediately enforceable policy measure.
Experts also noted that undersea communication networks carry substantial global internet and financial data traffic between Europe, Asia and Gulf states. Therefore, any disruption affecting these systems could create wider consequences beyond regional boundaries.
Analysts warned that interruptions could affect financial markets, communication networks, cloud services, business operations and international digital infrastructure.
In addition, experts stated that countries across the Gulf region, parts of Asia and sections of East Africa could experience broader connectivity challenges if key underwater communication systems faced disruptions.
