Iran Bans Starlink and Unauthorized Tech Use

Image: Starlink

Iran's Parliament has passed a new law criminalizing the use of unauthorized electronic communication technologies, including satellite internet services like Starlink. The legislation, which went into effect on Saturday, June 29th, introduces severe penalties ranging from imprisonment to the death penalty, depending on the severity of the offense.

According to Iran's state news agency IRNA, the bill received parliamentary approval on June 23rd before being publicly announced.

The move comes amidst heightened concerns in Iran regarding foreign influence, spy networks, and information control, particularly following a recent 12-day intense conflict with Israel. The Iranian government views unmonitored satellite internet services, such as Starlink, as a potential conduit for Israeli intelligence to establish contact within Tehran, posing a significant threat to national security.

Reports indicate that thousands of Starlink terminals were secretly smuggled into Iran during the conflict, allowing citizens to maintain connectivity amidst internet blackouts.

The newly enacted law is officially titled "Law on Increasing Punishment for Crimes Against National Security and Interests through Espionage, Cooperation with Israel, and Enemy States."

Under this law, any intelligence or military cooperation with Israel or other "enemy states" will be considered "corruption on Earth," an offense punishable by death.

Despite existing prohibitions, various media outlets report that an estimated 20,000 to 40,000 Starlink devices remain active in Iran, with the majority believed to have entered the country through black market channels.