Tel Aviv, Israel – Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett admitted that during his time in office, Israel carried out a covert operation to smuggle tens of thousands of Starlink satellite receivers into Iran.
The aim was to enable anti-government protesters to maintain internet access and communicate with each other
despite restrictions imposed by Iranian authorities.
Details of the secret operation
Speaking at the International Policy Summit in Jerusalem, Bennett explained that the project aimed to provide
a communications infrastructure to help opposition groups coordinate their efforts.
He also noted that the operation would have ensured continued access to social media and internet services during periods of unrest.
Bennett stated that his government initiated the purchase and smuggling of large numbers of Starlink receivers into Iran.
He considered this move part of a broader effort to support popular protests against the Iranian regime.
He added that the project did not continue after his term ended,
accusing the current Israeli government of failing to complete the previously established plans.
The internet is at the heart of the confrontation
Bennett’s remarks come amid previous Iranian accusations that Israel and the United States are working to introduce Starlink equipment into the country to circumvent internet restrictions.
Iranian authorities have repeatedly resorted to cutting off or restricting internet services during waves of protests and major security incidents.
Elon Musk has also previously indicated that the service is available within Iran, despite not having received official authorization to operate there.
Calls for regime change in Iran
In his remarks, Bennett called on Israel and other Middle Eastern countries to join forces to topple the Iranian regime.
He argued that the popular protests represent an opportunity to bring about political change within the country.
These statements come at a time of ongoing political competition within Israel between Bennett and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
This is happening ahead of the Israeli elections scheduled for next October, amidst continuing regional tensions related to the Iranian issue.
