Iran threatens Gulf data centres: How exposed is the region's internet? (www.aljazeera.com)

Iran's security chief, Mohsen Rezaei, has issued a stark warning that regional data centers and AI facilities may become targets for attacks if tensions with the United States escalate. This threat arises amid rising military activity in Yemen, particularly by Iran-backed Houthis near critical maritime routes, such as Bab al-Mandeb, which are vital for global internet traffic. Over 90% of data capacity between Europe and Asia flows through undersea cables in this region, making them particularly vulnerable to disruption from sabotage or military actions, which could have widespread economic repercussions. This situation raises significant concerns for the AI and tech communities in the Gulf, where major investments are being made in digital infrastructure. As Iran has repeatedly threatened to target cloud services of prominent companies like Google and Microsoft, the implications extend beyond mere disruption; they could jeopardize the Gulf's aspirations as a technology hub. Experts suggest that while Gulf nations continue to invest heavily in AI and data centers, the threats from Iran may shift the economic landscape and geography of AI investments, potentially diminishing the region's appeal as a safe environment for technological development.