The United States has reportedly supplied approximately 6,000 Starlink satellite internet terminals to Iran following the government’s internet shutdowns and crackdown on widespread protests earlier this year. This marks the first known instance of Washington directly providing the satellite technology within the country, according to information shared with The Wall Street Journal by U.S. officials.
Internet Restrictions and U.S. Response
As demonstrations gained momentum across Iran, the government implemented significant restrictions on online access. In response, the U.S. procured nearly 7,000 Starlink terminals in the months leading up to January, reallocating funds from other internet access initiatives to support the satellite deployment. While President Donald Trump was reportedly aware of the effort, it remains unclear if he personally authorized it. The White House has not issued a public statement on the matter.
Legal Ramifications and Widespread Use
Possessing a Starlink terminal is illegal in Iran and can lead to substantial prison sentences. Despite these risks, The Wall Street Journal estimates that tens of thousands of Iranians utilize the satellite service to circumvent state-imposed internet controls. Authorities have reportedly been conducting searches of homes and rooftops to identify and confiscate unauthorized equipment.
Debate Over Resource Allocation
The decision to prioritize Starlink faced internal debate within U.S. agencies. Some officials expressed concern that diverting resources from Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) could undermine broader internet accessibility efforts. VPNs had been crucial in maintaining connectivity for Iranians during previous protest waves, but they are ineffective when the core internet infrastructure is disabled. According to State Department figures, approximately 30 million Iranians used U.S.-funded VPN services during 2022 demonstrations, and about one-fifth of users maintained limited connectivity via VPNs during a near-total blackout in June 2025.
Critics have raised concerns that satellite internet access without VPN protection could expose users to geolocation risks. Following the redirection of funds for Starlink equipment, support for two of the five VPN providers operating in Iran reportedly lapsed. A State Department official affirmed that the U.S. continues to support multiple technologies, including VPNs alongside Starlink, to ensure internet access for the population amidst government-imposed shutdowns.
