Explained: How Elon Musk's Starlink becomes Iran protesters’ lifeline as internet blackout deepens

Jan 13, 2026 - 20:00
Explained: How Elon Musk's Starlink becomes Iran protesters’ lifeline as internet blackout deepens
Iran's internet shutdowns during protests are being circumvented by SpaceX's Starlink satellite service. Despite being illegal, terminals enter the country via informal channels, offering a lifeline for communication and information sharing. Authorities attempt to jam signals and locate devices, leading to a constant technological battle, while legal risks for users escalate.