Elon Musk's 3-word message after activating Starlink in Iran amid war
Source: Space.com
Elon Musk
announced that his Starlink
satellite internet service
is now active in
Iran
, providing crucial connectivity as the
Iranian government
imposed nationwide internet restrictions following escalating military exchanges with
Israel
.
Iran's communications ministry announced Friday that "temporary restrictions have been imposed on the country's internet" in response to Israel's wave of attacks on military and nuclear facilities. The ministry stated the curbs would remain until "normalcy returns," effectively cutting off millions from digital communication.
Responding to the blackout on social media platform X, Musk wrote simply: "The beams are on," confirming Starlink's activation in the country. The satellite internet service utilizes low Earth orbit satellites to provide connectivity to remote locations or areas where traditional communications infrastructure has been disabled.
Satellite network bypasses government controls
Starlink's network of low Earth orbit satellites can deliver internet access to remote locations or areas where traditional communications infrastructure has been disabled or restricted. An estimated 20,000
Starlink
terminals are believed to be operating in Iran through black market channels, according to industry analysts.
The service provides a critical lifeline for Iranian citizens seeking to communicate and access information during the government-imposed blackout. Starlink's cell-to-satellite communications are also functioning, expanding connectivity beyond just terminal users.
Military escalation drives communication crackdown
The internet restrictions coincide with intensifying military conflict between Iran and Israel. Israel's military said Saturday it was striking dozens of missile launchers across Iran, after Tehran fired multiple barrages in retaliation for Israeli attacks on its nuclear and military installations.
Israeli emergency services reported two civilian deaths when a rocket struck a residential area early Saturday, as both sides traded fire despite international calls for de-escalation. Israel's air force commander described the overnight strikes in the Tehran area as carrying "operational and national significance."
The Iranian government's decision to restrict internet access appears aimed at preventing potential civil unrest, echoing tactics used during previous protest movements. However, Starlink's activation may complicate these efforts to control information flow during the ongoing military crisis.
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