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National Endowment for Democracy Deploys Starlink in Iranian Riots

2/26/2026

Summary

Story summary

The National Endowment for Democracy deployed about 200 Starlink devices in Iran during the riots, per NED President Damon Wilson at a congressional hearing.
Wilson said NED shaped media narratives around Mahsa Amini's death that sparked protests.
The riots escalated into violence, with reports of foreign-backed militants infiltrating peaceful demonstrations.
Wilson says the effort is among NED's largest programs, while critics say it mirrors repressive tactics the agency condemns.

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Story summary

The National Endowment for Democracy deployed about 200 Starlink devices in Iran during the riots, per NED President Damon Wilson at a congressional hearing.
Wilson said NED shaped media narratives around Mahsa Amini's death that sparked protests.
The riots escalated into violence, with reports of foreign-backed militants infiltrating peaceful demonstrations.
Wilson says the effort is among NED's largest programs, while critics say it mirrors repressive tactics the agency condemns.