Allow people in Iran to stay connected during internet shutdowns — without special hardware

In Iran, the government has repeatedly responded to protests and civil unrest by cutting off the internet — deliberately isolating millions of people from one another and from the rest of the world.

These shutdowns are not technical failures. They are a tool of repression.

When the internet is cut:

• Families cannot check if loved ones are safe
• People cannot call for medical or emergency help
• Journalists and human-rights observers are silenced
• Evidence of violence disappears in real time
• Entire cities are cut off and made invisible
• Access to communication becomes a matter of life, safety, and dignity.

Why this petition matters

Starlink has already proven that satellite internet can restore connectivity in crisis zones. However, in Iran, traditional Starlink terminals are not enough:

• Specialised hardware is extremely difficult or dangerous to obtain
• Possession of satellite equipment can put civilians at serious risk
• Shared terminals are limited, traceable, and inaccessible to many

What people need is direct-to-phone satellite connectivity — access that works on ordinary mobile phones, without additional hardware.

Even basic services such as SMS, emergency contact, or minimal data would make a profound difference during blackouts.

This is a humanitarian request — not a political one

This petition is about one simple principle:

No government should be able to endanger lives by switching off communication.

When authorities cut the internet, they cut people off from help, from witnesses, and from the world. Restoring even limited connectivity protects civilians and saves lives.

Our request to Starlink

We respectfully ask Starlink to:

• Enable direct-to-phone satellite connectivity over Iran
• Ensure access does not require specialised or visible hardware
• Provide at least basic communication services during internet shutdowns

Starlink’s ongoing Direct-to-Cell development shows that this capability is within reach. Implemented carefully, it could serve as a vital humanitarian safeguard.

Why now

Periods of unrest in Iran are repeatedly accompanied by internet blackouts. Each time, millions are plunged into silence. Each time, people disappear from the world’s view.

History remembers those who enabled connection when silence was imposed.

Please help keep people connected when they need it most.

Sign this petition to stand for access, safety, and the right to communicate.