Iran Deploys Military Jammers to Disrupt Starlink Access During Internet Blackout

In a significant escalation of government control over communications, Iranian authorities have reportedly activated military-grade jammers to disrupt Starlink satellite internet service amid ongoing anti-regime protests. This development comes in the wake of a nationwide internet blackout that began on January 8, 2026, leaving millions of Iranians without access to online services. Reports from multiple sources, including Forbes, IranWire, and The Times of Israel, indicate that initial disruptions to Starlink"s uplink and downlink traffic affected approximately 30% of the service, with that figure escalating to over 80% within a matter of hours.

Key Details

The Iranian government"s decision to deploy military jammers represents a notable shift in its approach to managing dissent. The jammers are specifically designed to interfere with GPS signals, which are crucial for the operation of Starlink terminals. This disruption has resulted in patchy connectivity and near-total blackouts in key areas where protests are concentrated. The ongoing protests are a response to the Iranian regime"s policies and actions, which have increasingly faced public backlash.

Since the conclusion of the 12-day conflict between Iran and Israel in June 2025, the Iranian government has been reported to have jamming capabilities that extend beyond just internet services. Experts have noted that the jamming of GPS signals has been a tactic employed by the Iranian authorities to limit the effectiveness of satellite internet access, particularly in regions where anti-regime protests are taking place.

Despite the illegality of possessing Starlink units in Iran, tens of thousands of unauthorized devices are reportedly in use. This situation marks the first major successful jamming of the Starlink service, which had previously provided a vital alternative communication method for protesters seeking to organize and share information. The regime"s actions underscore its growing sophistication in digital suppression as unrest continues to escalate across the country.

Background

The internet blackout initiated on January 8, 2026, has left millions disconnected from essential services and communication channels. The blackout is part of a broader strategy by the Iranian government to control the flow of information and quell dissent during a period of heightened civil unrest. The protests have been fueled by various socio-political grievances, including economic hardship and calls for greater freedoms.

In the aftermath of the June 2025 conflict with Israel, the Iranian government has increasingly relied on digital suppression tactics, including the jamming of communications. This has raised concerns among human rights advocates and international observers regarding the regime"s commitment to maintaining a free and open internet.

Impact

The deployment of military jammers to disrupt Starlink access poses significant challenges for protesters who have relied on satellite internet as a means of communication during demonstrations. As the Iranian regime continues to enhance its digital suppression capabilities, the ability of citizens to organize and communicate effectively may be further compromised. This situation highlights the ongoing struggle for freedom of expression in Iran and raises questions about the future of digital rights in the country.

For more on related coverage, see recent developments regarding U.S. actions against Iran and massive anti-regime protests ongoing in Tehran.