Starlink Users in Iran Get Free Internet Access, Nonprofit Says
The New York Times • • world
Key Points:
- Starlink, SpaceX’s satellite internet service, was reportedly offered for free to users in Iran on Tuesday amid a near-total communications blackout during mass protests, according to Holistic Resilience, a U.S.-based organization aiding Iranians’ internet access.
- The Iranian government has imposed a communications blockade to suppress information flow and protest organization, with reports of security forces using lethal force against demonstrators.
- SpaceX and Elon Musk have previously provided Starlink access in conflict zones and during crises, including Ukraine’s war, making the service a critical tool for internet connectivity in restricted areas.
- Iran has banned Starlink terminals, enacted severe penalties including death for using the service, and attempted to jam satellite signals to block access, viewing the service as
