The Iranian government is attempting to crack down on Starlink. This frame grab from videos taken between January 9 and January 11, 2026, and circulating on social media purportedly shows images from a morgue with dozens of bodies and mourners after crackdown on the outskirts of Iran's capital, in Kahrizak. AP
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Firstpost13-01-2026, 18:10

Starlink's Geopolitical Power: Musk's Internet Service Shapes Conflicts in Iran, Venezuela, Ukraine

  • Starlink, Elon Musk's satellite internet service, has become a critical geopolitical tool in ongoing conflicts and protests.
  • In Iran, protesters use Starlink to bypass government internet blackouts and share information, despite regime efforts to jam the service and hunt for dishes.
  • Venezuelans have relied on Starlink for connectivity and information during infrastructure collapse and political turmoil, with free broadband offered until 2026.
  • Starlink is a vital lifeline for Ukraine's military and government, coordinating efforts and keeping essential services online amidst Russian attacks.
  • Concerns are rising globally about the immense power a private citizen like Musk wields over critical infrastructure, impacting lives and potentially influencing international conflicts.

Why It Matters: Elon Musk's Starlink is a powerful geopolitical tool, enabling communication in conflict zones but raising concerns about private control.

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