SpaceX Offers Free Starlink Internet in Iran Amid Protests and Government Jamming

Amid widespread protests in Iran and a near-total internet blackout, Elon Musk's SpaceX has waived subscription fees for its Starlink satellite internet service, enabling users with receivers—estimated at around 50,000 smuggled units—to access the internet freely. The Iranian government has responded by deploying military-grade jammers, reportedly of Russian origin, to disrupt Starlink signals and raiding homes to confiscate equipment. US President Donald Trump has publicly supported the protests and discussed restoring internet access with Musk, while Iranian officials accuse the US of inciting unrest. Starlink's satellite-based service remains a critical communication lifeline for protesters despite ongoing efforts to block it.