Iran targets Starlink users during continued crackdown on protests nationwide

Iran Targets Starlink Users Amid Protests

Human rights organizations claim that Iranian authorities are focusing on Starlink users to prevent protest recordings from leaking, as the government continues to restrict internet access. With anti-regime demonstrations intensifying last week, the public internet was shut down, leaving Starlink as one of the few options for Iranians to distribute images of the regime’s violent crackdown.

Although Starlink is technically illegal in Iran, reports suggest that thousands of Starlink devices are being smuggled into the country. Efforts by the government to disrupt internet service have slowed down connectivity, but users still manage to send footage to trusted contacts and post updates on social media.

SpaceX, the company that runs Starlink, hasn’t commented on the situation yet.

Trump to Meet Musk Over Starlink

During a recent press conference, former President Donald Trump announced plans to meet with Elon Musk, the CEO of SpaceX, to discuss enhancing Starlink connectivity in Iran. Trump remarked on Musk’s expertise, stating he’s “very good at those things.”

Previously, SpaceX cooperated with the Biden administration in 2022 to facilitate Starlink access in response to protests following the death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old woman who died after being detained by Iran’s morality police.

The Present Situation

Today, the protests in Iran are largely fueled by economic discontent, as Iranians express their outrage over rising prices and call for an end to the regime led by Ayatollah Khamenei. Reports indicate that at least 646 protesters have been killed, with some estimates, according to anonymous Iranian officials, suggesting the toll could be around 2,000.

On a related note, the White House acknowledged that Trump is considering military action in response to the crackdown. While White House Press Secretary Caroline Levitt highlighted that diplomacy is the preferred route, she noted that Trump is “not afraid to use military options if he deems it necessary.”