Washington, DC – The Wall Street Journal revealed that the Trump administration secretly sent thousands of Starlink satellite internet devices to Iran during the popular protests that swept the country last month.
The newspaper explained that the US administration delivered approximately 6,000 Starlink devices to facilitate communication between Iranian opposition activists and the outside world. This took place after Iranian authorities imposed a widespread internet blackout. Sources indicated that the US State Department purchased around 7,000 devices from Elon Musk’s SpaceX in recent months. The goal was to help protesters circumvent government internet restrictions.
American interference
The newspaper confirmed that this is the first time the United States has sent Starlink devices directly to Iran. Additionally, the US administration also diverted funds from internet freedom support programs to purchase these devices. Sources indicated that Trump was aware of the delivery. However, there is no definitive information regarding his direct approval of the plan.
Tehran considered this move an American interference in its internal affairs. It accused Washington of fueling the protests and supporting the Iranian opposition. For its part, the newspaper asserted that the operation demonstrates that the US administration has provided indirect support to the protesters, despite its denials of direct intervention.
Ongoing tensions
Many Iranians turned to Starlink devices to communicate with the outside world and share videos documenting the protests and riots. Meanwhile, Iranian authorities managed to partially disrupt the service using sophisticated military technology.
This development comes amid ongoing tensions between Tehran and Washington. There have been repeated calls from Iranian activists to connect with the outside world through secure technological means. The activists want to counter government restrictions on freedom of expression and digital communication.
This report reflects the growing role of technology in political conflicts. In addition, it highlights the importance of satellite internet in supporting popular movements in areas where digital connectivity is restricted.
