Trump and Musk Discuss Internet Restoration in Iran Amid Protests
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has announced plans to engage with Elon Musk to discuss the restoration of internet services in Iran, which have been disrupted due to widespread protests against the Iranian government.
Trump referred to Musk as "a great person in this field," suggesting that Musk's company, SpaceX, which operates the satellite internet service Starlink, could offer a solution to the ongoing crisis.
The relationship between Trump and Musk has experienced ups and downs, beginning with Musk's financial support for Trump's presidential campaign and later tensions over tax issues in 2025. However, their recent dinner at Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort in January 2025 appears to have rekindled their collaboration.
Simultaneously, Israel is showing interest in the Iranian internet situation. Almog Cohen, Deputy Minister in Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office, has reached out to Israeli-American businessman Dovi Francis to explore the feasibility of Starlink operating in Iran during the current internet blackout.
Francis has not confirmed whether he has spoken with Musk or what the next steps might be.
Iranian authorities often cut off internet access during periods of protest to control information flow. Starlink could provide a crucial means of connectivity, as it is harder for governments to block, though it requires ground stations that Iran would likely monitor.
In light of these developments, Iranian activist Masih Alinejad and other international advocates have increased calls for Musk to expand Starlink's services to Iran, aiming to help citizens regain internet access.
In related news, the U.S. Federal Communications Commission has approved the addition of 7,500 new second-generation satellites to the Starlink network, raising the total number of satellites to 15,000, which is expected to enhance global high-speed internet service.
As political tensions persist and technology evolves, the question remains:
Can Starlink significantly impact the internet crisis in Iran, and what role will Western governments play in this situation?
