Despite repeated warnings from U.S. President Donald Trump, Iran is showing no signs of backing down. As a result, uncertainty continues to grow across the world, with no clarity on when the tense global situation will improve. Several countries are already struggling due to the sharp rise in oil prices. Now, Iran appears to be preparing another major move, raising concerns that the situation could worsen further. Iran had issued warnings on this issue even in the past. As long as the United States and Israel do not start a war in the Strait of Hormuz, ships have so far been allowed to pass through freely. However, citing the need for reconstruction following the war, Iran has now officially decided that vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz must pay charges. At the same time, Iran is reportedly planning another strategy aimed specifically at American companies.
Iranian media itself is openly reporting this development. Iran is preparing to impose fees on U.S. companies for the undersea internet cables running beneath the Strait of Hormuz. It has also warned that if American companies refuse to pay these fees, it would not hesitate to cut the cables. While Donald Trump has been threatening that “nothing will remain in Iran” if Tehran does not immediately agree to a deal with the United States, Iran is now reportedly focusing on underwater communication cables as a pressure tactic. Experts believe that if Iran imposes taxes or fees on these cables, major global technology companies such as Microsoft, Meta Platforms, Google, and Amazon could face serious consequences.
Iran has warned that once all preparations are completed, any company refusing to pay the demanded fees would have to face heavy losses. However, it may take some time before there is complete clarity on the issue. If Iran takes harsh decisions regarding undersea internet cables, it could severely impact several sectors across the globe. India, too, is likely to face significant consequences. Another important factor is that many crucial international communication cables belonging to several major countries pass beneath the Strait of Hormuz.