- ZOI, Horizon Scope, and ITPC collaborate on a new digital corridor
- The route offers an alternative to traditional subsea cables
What happened: Strategic partnership establishes terrestrial fibre link
On 28 May 2025, Zain Omantel International (ZOI), Horizon Scope Telecom, and Iraq’s General Telecommunications and Information Company (ITPC) announced a partnership to create a digital telecommunications corridor connecting the Middle East to Europe via Iraq. This terrestrial fibre route will pass through Turkey and extend to Frankfurt, Germany, providing an alternative to traditional subsea cables. The corridor aims to offer higher capacity, enhanced security, and improved efficiency for businesses, telecom operators, and hyperscalers.
Horizon Scope Telecom, as a licensed ISP, will facilitate direct peering and interconnection with global internet exchanges, enhancing speed and reducing latency. ITPC will ensure compliance with international standards and maintain regulatory measures across Iraq. This initiative positions Iraq as a digital gateway, strengthening its role in regional and international connectivity.
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Why it’s important
The establishment of a terrestrial fibre corridor through Iraq by Zain Omantel International, Horizon Scope Telecom, and ITPC represents a significant development in regional telecommunications infrastructure. By providing an alternative to traditional subsea cables, this route enhances the resilience and reliability of connectivity between the Middle East and Europe. The corridor’s design aims to offer higher capacity and improved security, addressing the growing demand for robust digital infrastructure.
Horizon Scope Telecom’s role in facilitating direct peering and interconnection with global internet exchanges is expected to enhance network performance. ITPC’s involvement ensures adherence to international standards and regulatory compliance within Iraq. This initiative not only strengthens Iraq’s position as a digital gateway but also contributes to the broader goal of improving global telecommunications networks.
