Sources: US has requested changes to Starlink access before

TT 

Published 04:09

 

US President Donald Trump. Photo: Mark Schiefelbein/AP/TT

According to various sources, the idea that the US might have asked Elon Musk to alter access to the Starlink satellite network is nothing new. Both the Biden and Trump administrations have made such requests in the past, six sources told Reuters.

This week, reports that Elon Musk restricted the military version of Starlink—thereby hindering Ukraine’s defensive capabilities—have drawn significant attention. Musk has suggested that limitations within the system are determined by the US military and President Trump; however, the US government has denied ordering any such restrictions.

During Joe Biden’s presidency, the US reportedly requested that the network be shut down to disrupt communications for Iranian-backed groups in Lebanon and Yemen. Conversely, requests to activate the service were made to support the Ukrainian military and to ensure that individuals in Iran had access to the internet, according to four sources.

According to two sources, Donald Trump’s administration asked Musk to make Starlink available in Iran following American and Israeli attacks in 2025 and 2026. The objective was reportedly to provide those opposing the Iranian regime with better access to the internet and communication channels.