US Secretly Sent Thousands of Starlink Terminals to Iran

State Department covertly delivered satellite internet amid mass protests, per WSJ

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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The Trump administration secretly moved about 6,000 Starlink satellite internet terminals into Iran after security forces there crushed mass protests in January, killing thousands and sharply limiting online access. The State Department had bought nearly 7,000 terminals, most in January, by shifting money away from other internet-freedom programs in Iran and toward hardware meant to keep anti-regime activists connected.

Why it matters

The secret Starlink effort shows a deeper level of US backing for the Iranian opposition than previously acknowledged, as the Iranian government has long accused Washington of orchestrating unrest. The move sparked a split among US officials, with some arguing satellites were essential once authorities pulled the plug on the internet, while others warned cutting funds for virtual private networks (VPNs) would expose more Iranians.

The details

Washington's quiet bet on Elon Musk's Starlink satellites in Iran turns out to have been much bigger than previously disclosed. Officials say President Trump knew about the deliveries, though it's unclear who formally signed off on the plan. Tehran bans Starlink and threatens users with years in prison. As money flowed to Starlink, funding for some VPN providers lapsed, and firms like Psiphon say they're now struggling. Meanwhile, Iranian security forces are hunting for satellite dishes on roofs, with analysts noting that tens of thousands of people seem to be continuing to risk prison terms to stay online.

  • In January 2026, the Trump administration secretly moved about 6,000 Starlink satellite internet terminals into Iran.
  • The State Department had bought nearly 7,000 terminals, most in January 2026, by shifting money away from other internet-freedom programs in Iran.

The players

Elon Musk

The founder of SpaceX, which developed the Starlink satellite internet system.

Donald Trump

The former president of the United States, who was aware of the Starlink deliveries to Iran.

Psiphon

A firm that provides virtual private network (VPN) services, which is now struggling due to reduced funding as money was shifted to Starlink.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.