Users of the SpaceX-operated satellite service now face penalties of fines, flogging, or up to two years in prison if they are caught, according to state media.

The law, which also toughens espionage rules, targets foreign-backed dissent. Though pending final approval, it reflects Tehran's growing alarm over Starlink's role as a digital lifeline during internet blackouts and a potent symbol in its information war with the West.

Newsweek has reached out to Elon Musk via X for comment.

Why It Matters

The Starlink ban underscores how private tech firms such as Starlink have become entangled in global conflict. Coming after U.S. and Israeli strikes, the move highlights how satellite internet is now a tool of modern warfare—and a threat in the eyes of governments like Iran's.

What to Know

Iran's new legislation expands state powers over digital and foreign-linked activities. In addition to criminalizing Starlink, the law introduces sweeping penalties for espionage and cooperation with foreign adversaries. It defines "operational cooperation" with countries like the U.S. and Israel as "corruption on earth"—a capital offense under Iranian law. This includes actions such as cyberattacks, use of drones or sabotage tools, and accepting funds from foreign intelligence, even without taking action.

Starlink in Iran

On June 14—just one day after Israeli airstrikes first targeted Iran—Elon Musk posted a four-word message on X: "The beams are on." The post confirmed the activation of Starlink's satellite internet service over Iran amid a sweeping government-imposed internet blackout. Tehran's shutdown came as part of its crackdown following escalating regional conflict, severing much of the country's digital communication with the outside world. Musk's move instantly provided a high-speed, uncensorable connection, offering Iranians a potential lifeline to bypass state censorship and maintain contact during a period of intense unrest.