Beating The Blackout: Timeline of Iran's clandestine Starlink smuggling network

A BBC report describes a clandestine network smuggling Starlink devices into Iran in defiance of the ban. The operation is funded by Iranians settled abroad, with no state funding, and terminals are distributed to people who will share information internationally.

Iranian state media reported that four people, including two foreign nationals, were arrested for importing satellite internet equipment; authorities noted multiple arrests have occurred.

The ban was intensified in February after a brief relief, as the United States and Israel launched attacks on the country, killing hundreds including its Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Human rights group Witness estimates that there are at least 50,000 Starlink devices in Iran as of January.

According to the NasNet public Telegram channel, approximately 5,000 Starlink terminals have been sold through the channel over the last two and a half years.

Internet is virtually banned in Iran, with authorities imposing a blackout during massive protests across the country.

In 2025, Iran passed legislation making using, buying or selling Starlink devices illegal, with penalties including up to two years in jail; importing and distributing more than 10 units carries a 10-year jail term.