Free Internet Access During Crisis

When your government cuts off the internet, sometimes a billionaire with satellites steps in. SpaceX is reportedly offering free Starlink satellite internet service in Iran as the country enters its 17th day of nationwide protests and its fifth consecutive day without internet access.

According to NetBlocks, a platform tracking online connectivity, Iran has been offline for 120 hours straight. That's five full days of digital darkness while authorities try to keep protesters isolated from the outside world.

Ahmad Ahmadian, executive director of U.S.-based Holistic Resilience (an organization helping Iranians maintain internet access), told Bloomberg that SpaceX is letting Starlink receivers stay online without charging subscription fees. A source familiar with Starlink operations confirmed the service is active.

President Donald Trump previously mentioned plans to discuss with Musk about restoring internet services in Iran using Starlink technology.

A Digital Cat-and-Mouse Game

Iranian authorities aren't just sitting back and watching. They're actively jamming Starlink signals and hunting down equipment. On Tuesday, IRIB News, Iran's state-run media outlet, reported confiscating "a large consignment" of electronic equipment allegedly used for "espionage and sabotage." The footage showed what appeared to be Starlink receivers among the seized items.

Starlink's Expanding Role in Conflicts

This isn't Musk's first rodeo providing internet access in politically tense situations. Earlier this month, Starlink announced free broadband service in Venezuela through Feb. 3 following President Nicolás Maduro's arrest. The company has also been providing crucial internet connectivity in Ukraine throughout the Russian invasion.

SpaceX did not immediately respond to requests for comment.