Iran official warns Starlink threatens state control of cyberspace amid intensified crackdown

What happened

Iran International reports Deputy Communications Minister Mohammad Hafez Hakami has warned that the spread of Starlink satellite internet could deliver the “final nail in the coffin” for Iran’s ability to control cyberspace. Hakami described Starlink technology as fundamentally changing the government’s capacity to restrict communications, stating that control is no longer anchored in the domestic network but instead challenged by Starlink’s satellite connectivity. The official linked current government efforts to arrests, seizures, and legal penalties aiming to suppress the technology.

Outside Brief is treating this as a source-led account. Any disputed responsibility, casualty figure, battlefield claim or single-source assertion should be treated as unconfirmed/hearsay unless confirmed by another reliable source or a named official. Hakami outlined Iran’s evolving internet restrictions during past unrest, from platform-specific blocks in 2017 to full network shutdowns in 2026, noting that Starlink’s technology bypasses traditional domestic telecom infrastructure. The introduction of Direct-to-Cell technology, enabling phones to connect directly to satellites, further threatens the effectiveness of state controls like mandatory mobile registration. While Hakami cautioned against 'Starlink-phobia,' he warned that the government’s ability to control cyberspace is eroding.

The crackdown on Starlink involves intensified enforcement actions. Iran’s Economic Security Police reported seizing nearly 1,000 Starlink devices and arresting 163 people over a four-month period ending in July. Authorities have also targeted individuals, with documented prison sentences for Starlink equipment possession and trading. Legislation passed in 2025 criminalizes use and trade of unlicensed satellite internet devices, prescribing heavy penalties including possible death sentences in cases framed as espionage or threats to the state. Amnesty International has highlighted the government’s portrayal of Starlink users as potential collaborators with hostile states.

Known from the source

• Deputy Communications Minister Mohammad Hafez Hakami publicly stated Starlink threatens Iran’s control of cyberspace.
• Iran has increasingly restricted internet access during protests, escalating to full shutdowns by 2026.
• Starlink devices connect via satellites, bypassing the domestic telecommunications network, challenging government control efforts.
• Iran’s Economic Security Police reported seizing 997 Starlink devices and arresting 163 people during the four months through July.
• Legislation enacted in 2025 criminalizes possession, sale, and use of unlicensed satellite internet devices, with penalties including imprisonment and death in specific cases.

What remains unclear

There has been at least one reported death linked to the crackdown. According to Iran International, Hesam Alaeddin died after severe beatings by government agents following his arrest related to alleged Starlink use. Amnesty International has documented the death but states details remain unclear. This case underscores the human rights risks accompanying the intensified government campaign against Starlink.

What remains unclear: Confirm whether the central claim is corroborated; until then treat it as unconfirmed/hearsay. Verification of cooperation claims between Iranian authorities and the United States mentioned by Hakami. Independent confirmation of casualty details related to Hesam Alaeddin and circumstances surrounding his death. Legal text confirming penalties for Starlink use and importation under 2025 legislation.

Evidence note

Outside Brief has kept this brief source-led and attributed. Claims should be read alongside the original source linked below.

Original source: Iran International. Open the source.