Iranis Use Musk's Starlink Amid Near-Total Internet Blackout

Some Iranians are accessing Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite internet service despite a nationwide internet shutdown imposed by authorities during ongoing anti-government protests, sources inside the country said.

Since January 8, Iran has sharply restricted internet and mobile services, a move aimed at limiting the spread of images, videos and reports linked to the unrest. Data from independent internet monitoring groups show non-satellite connectivity has fallen to about 1% of normal levels, leaving most of the population without access to online communication.

Starlink, operated by SpaceX, has provided limited connectivity in parts of Iran, including some western regions and border areas, according to users and digital rights monitors. The satellite-based system can operate independently of Iran’s telecom networks, which have largely gone offline under government orders.

• Iranians use Starlink to bypass internet shutdown amid nationwide anti-government protests
• Iran’s blackout cuts connectivity to 1%, while Starlink offers limited access despite a ban
• Elon Musk’s Starlink draws global attention as Iran restricts internet access

The Iranian government does not authorize Starlink and has banned its use. Despite this, some satellite internet terminals have entered the country through informal channels. Users said connections are unstable and often interrupted, suggesting authorities may be attempting to jam satellite signals. Access also remains restricted due to the high cost of equipment and the difficulty of transporting terminals into Iran.

Iranian officials have defended the blackout as a security measure, blaming the unrest on what they describe as foreign-backed groups and violent actors. Human rights organizations dispute that claim, saying the shutdown is designed to prevent coordination among protesters and to obstruct the documentation of arrests and alleged abuses.

The issue has drawn attention abroad. U.S. President Donald Trump said he planned to speak with Musk about ways to restore internet access in Iran, while Tehran said it remains open to diplomatic communication with foreign governments.

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For many Iranians, even limited access through Starlink has allowed brief contact with the outside world, enabling messaging, media uploads and coordination. Despite legal risks associated with using unlicensed satellite equipment, some users continue to rely on the service as one of the few remaining ways to stay online during the blackout.