Summary: Millions of civilians in Iran face systematic internet shutdowns during times of protest and crisis. While Starlink Roam currently provides limited access, it is not sufficient for stable, home-based connectivity. We urge SpaceX to enable a Residential-equivalent Starlink service for Iran, using existing non-territorial frameworks, to ensure reliable civilian access to the global internet.

Access to the open internet is no longer a luxury. It is a prerequisite for personal safety, access to information, education, and basic civil coordination.

In Iran, state-imposed internet shutdowns and severe bandwidth restrictions are routinely used during periods of protest and civil unrest. These shutdowns disproportionately harm civilians, journalists, students, healthcare coordination, and families attempting to stay connected to the outside world.

Starlink has already demonstrated that satellite-based internet can bypass terrestrial censorship. At present, some Iranians are able to access the internet via Starlink Roam plans. While valuable, these plans are inherently limited: they are designed for temporary, mobile use and do not provide the stability, prioritization, or reliability required for household-level access.

We respectfully request that SpaceX explore and implement a Residential-equivalent Starlink access model for Iran, without requiring formal recognition or approval from Iranian authorities.

This does not require launching a fully “official” country rollout. Instead, we propose technical and policy approaches that remain within existing non-territorial or mobile service frameworks, such as:

• A Residential-grade service delivered under a Roam-based or location-agnostic classification

• Stable, high-priority household connectivity without fixed national address registration

• Clear alignment with U.S. sanctions exemptions for communications technologies supporting civilian access to information


The United States government has repeatedly stated its support for the Iranian people’s rights. SpaceX, through Starlink, is uniquely positioned to translate that support into practical, life-impacting infrastructure.

This request is not for free service, subsidies, or donations. Iranian users are willing to pay for internet access. What is missing is technical availability, not demand.

By enabling Residential-equivalent Starlink access for Iran, SpaceX would:

• Strengthen civilian resilience against internet shutdowns

• Support freedom of information without direct political intervention

• Demonstrate global leadership in communications access during crises


We urge SpaceX leadership to formally evaluate this proposal and engage with relevant U.S. authorities to remove remaining technical and policy barriers.