TIME cited Mostafa Ahmed, Head of Political and Security Studies at the Al Habtoor Research Centre, in its analysis of the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz as one of the world’s most vital digital corridors. The article was based on his assessment of the growing risks to global submarine cable infrastructure in the context of the Iranian war, examining the potential repercussions of disruptions to international data flows, cloud computing, financial networks, and artificial intelligence infrastructure.

Mr. Mostafa study titled “What If: Iran Targeted Submarine Internet Cables in the Arabian Gulf?” also explored the legal, geopolitical, and security implications of Iran’s proposals to target submarine cables, their implications for the digital transformation strategies of Gulf states, and the broader impact on regional technological development.

Time Article Published Date: May 19, 2026

The Financial Times cited the same study by Mostafa Ahmed, in its coverage of the strategic implications of stalled submarine cable projects in the Middle East. The article highlighted his analysis of the Strait of Hormuz as a critical digital chokepoint, whose vulnerability extends beyond energy security to encompass global telecommunications infrastructure.

His assessment addressed how prolonged geopolitical instability could undermine investor confidence, delay AI and cloud computing ambitions, disrupt international data connectivity across Africa, Asia, and Europe, and reshape long-term infrastructure investment decisions throughout the region.

Financial Times Article Published Date: June 25, 2026

Financial Times and TIME Cite AHRC Head of Political and Security Studies