Arabic version: السعودية تحول مسار كابل الألياف الضوئية من إسرائيل إلى سوريا

Saudi Arabia wants to replace Israel with Syria as the transit country for a fibre-optic cable designed to connect the kingdom to Greece through the Mediterranean Sea, two regional officials familiar with the project told Middle East Eye. This decision reflects shifting alliances in the region as Riyadh seeks to enhance Syria’s status while distancing itself from Israel. According to Middle East Eye, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has publicly accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza, where over 72,000 Palestinians have been killed, further complicating relations.

The proposed cable is part of the East to Med data Corridor project, which Saudi Arabia announced in partnership with Greece in 2022. While initially considering Israel as the transit country, Saudi Arabia’s recent request to include Syria indicates a strategic pivot. This move could strain Greece’s close ties with Israel, which it views as an ally against Turkey.

Saudi Arabia’s investment in Syria’s telecommunications infrastructure amounts to approximately $800 million, with plans to establish a fibre-optic network extending over more than 4,500 kilometres. Experts suggest that this initiative aims to bolster regional connectivity and integrate Syria back into the fold.

As Greece positions itself as a key hub for energy and technology, the shift in the cable route could have significant implications for its relations with both Saudi Arabia and Israel. The evolving political landscape in the region highlights the complexities of international partnerships and infrastructure projects, particularly in the context of the ongoing conflict in Gaza.