Iran prohibits SpaceX’s Starlink amid rising geopolitical tensions
Iran’s government today announced a nationwide ban on SpaceX’s satellite internet service, Starlink, citing concerns over national security and foreign-controlled infrastructure. The move is seen as part of Tehran’s efforts to assert digital sovereignty and restrict external communications channels.
Initial reports indicate that access to Starlink was cut off in border regions and in industrial zones where control over digital communications is considered critical. Iranian officials claimed that the service posed risks due to the potential for unspecified “foreign influence.”
In response, local tech companies have been urged to accelerate domestic satellite internet projects, with state-backed telecom providers promising faster rollout of ground-based alternatives. Analysts caution this may hinder internet freedom and leave remote regions underserved.
SpaceX has not yet issued a formal response, but international observers point to the ban as part of broader information control strategies by authoritarian regimes. This raises vital questions about digital rights and connectivity equity.
I'm Adedayo Obadina
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