Iran bans Starlink: Harsh punishments for users announced
American billionaire Elon Musk (Photo: Getty Images)
Iranian authorities have officially banned the use of Starlink satellite internet, criminalizing its use with severe penalties, including fines, flogging, and up to two years imprisonment, according to The Jerusalem Post.
This decision aims to combat access to uncontrolled internet that allows users to bypass government censorship.
Why Starlink was banned
Iranian authorities want to maintain control over the information space and prevent access to an uncensored internet.
At the same time, Starlink operates through Elon Musk’s satellite network, allowing users to bypass government restrictions, website blocks, and censorship. For many Iranians, satellite internet has become the only way to learn about world events without filtering.
Despite the ban — tens of thousands of terminals are still in use
Despite severe penalties, experts estimate that between 20,000 and 40,000 Starlink devices remain active in Iran. Most of these entered the country through the black market.
People risk breaking the law to gain free, uncensored access to information, messaging apps, and social networks.
New wave of censorship or a step towards security
This is not the first attempt by Iranian authorities to heavily restrict internet access: VPN services and messaging apps have previously been banned. However, the popularity of Starlink shows that a portion of the population is willing to take risks for truthful news and world-class services.
Whether the Iranian government will succeed in pushing out satellite internet remains to be seen.
US President Donald Trump stated that he is considering easing sanctions against Iran following a ceasefire.
For more details on potential proposals, read the full article by RBC-Ukraine.
