The massive 45,000-kilometer 2Africa subsea cable project, spearheaded by a consortium including Meta and Center3, has faced a major setback due to escalating military conflict in the Middle East. Installation operations for the “Pearls” segment in the Persian Gulf and sections of the Red Sea have been paused by Alcatel Submarine Networks (ASN) following security concerns and force majeure notices.
The cable-laying vessel Ile De Batz currently remains stationary near Dammam, Saudi Arabia, as active military operations make the route too hazardous for technical crews. This delay follows previous interruptions caused by Houthi strikes in early 2025 and ongoing permit difficulties.
While internet traffic is currently being rerouted through existing infrastructure in Oman and Saudi Arabia, experts warn that prolonged delays and potential seabed hazards from unexploded munitions could significantly slow the expansion of high-speed internet across Africa and parts of Asia.
Regional Conflict Halts Meta’s 2Africa Subsea Cable Project
