Story perspectives

Trump Administration Smuggles Starlink to Aid Iranian Protesters

2/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Trump administration smuggled about 6,000 Starlink terminals into Iran after a January crackdown on protests.
This marked the first direct delivery of Starlink devices to Iran to aid dissidents amid severe internet restrictions.
United States officials said funding for the Starlink operation was redirected from other internet-freedom programs.
United States President Donald Trump publicly encouraged protesters, warning of severe consequences if talks on Iran's nuclear program fail.

History

Historical Context

The 2009 Iranian Green Movement emerged after disputed presidential elections, with protests ignited by claims of electoral fraud against Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. The U.S. government supported these protests, allocating $2 million for internet freedom initiatives. This historical context parallels the recent smuggling of 6,000 Starlink terminals to Iran, highlighting ongoing U.S. efforts to bolster democratic movements against authoritarianism.

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Story summary

The Trump administration smuggled about 6,000 Starlink terminals into Iran after a January crackdown on protests.
This marked the first direct delivery of Starlink devices to Iran to aid dissidents amid severe internet restrictions.
United States officials said funding for the Starlink operation was redirected from other internet-freedom programs.
United States President Donald Trump publicly encouraged protesters, warning of severe consequences if talks on Iran's nuclear program fail.

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