Iran intends to impose taxes for the use of submarine cables that cross the Strait of Hormuz, threatening possible disruptions to internet traffic.

Iran, taking advantage of its successful blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, plans to impose taxes on global technology companies for the use of submarine cables that carry data between Europe, Asia, and the Persian Gulf. Statements from Iranian officials suggest that if companies like Google and Microsoft do not comply with the new regulations, there could be disruptions in internet traffic. Although some submarine cables pass through Iranian territorial waters, it is uncertain how Iran could force companies to comply, given the American sanctions. Iran's threats target not only the internet but also financial systems and military communications, with the potential to cause a global "digital disaster." Iran is thus using its geographical position to strengthen its economic and strategic power, considering the precedent of the Suez Canal, where Egypt generates revenue from transit fees. However, legal and operational challenges remain significant, and the real impact of these threats is still uncertain.