According to a report by the Wall Street Journal, which cites informed sources, the United States has covertly sent approximately 6,000 Starlink satellite terminals to Iran. This action occurred after the Iranian authorities violently suppressed anti-government protests in January, which led to a near-total blackout of internet access in the country. Despite official denials of involvement, this operation indicates that Washington is actively supporting the networks of protestors within Iran.

US officials confirmed that the terminals were smuggled into Iran in response to the harsh government crackdowns and the drastic reduction of internet services. This marks the first time that the US has directly supplied such equipment to the country, highlighting a significant shift in a long-standing approach towards aiding civil society amidst authoritarian regimes. The Starlink terminals, provided by SpaceX, owned by Elon Musk, were purchased by the State Department, which previously acquired nearly 7,000 units.

The implications of this operation extend beyond merely supporting internet access for protestors; it represents a strategic maneuver by the US to bolster opposition forces against the Iranian regime. The successful delivery of these terminals could strengthen the capacities of dissenters, enabling better coordination and communication during protests, potentially leading to increased unrest against the Iranian government. This initiative also raises questions about the broader implications of US foreign policy in supporting democratic movements globally, especially in regions facing severe government repression.