The US allowed private companies to offer uncensored internet access in Iran, despite protests that have caused more than 40 deaths.
Starlink activated in Ukraine earlier this year as their communication networks were disrupted by the Russian invasion.
Starlink is the first in a new generation of satellite networks that are designed to provide high-bandwidth internet connections from space to individual users.
A special terminal is required to receive a signal from the constellation of satellites. A 20-inch satellite dish, which is shipped in a package about the size of two pizza boxes, is included in the terminal.
Last week, Musk told the Financial Times that he would turn on the Starlink service in Iran and Cuba if the US relaxed its sanctions.
The Starlink service will not be approved by the Iranian government. The government won't be pleased with that, so someone would have to buy a terminal and smuggle it into Iran.
According to an unofficial figure broadcast on state television, 41 people have died in Iran in the last week after the death of a young woman accused of failing to wear the hijab. The US Treasury loosened restrictions on the internet last week, but Iran cut access to social media sites.
AdvertisementOn Sunday, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace said that Musk had told him that the satellite service was activated in Iran. If anyone can get a terminal into Iran, they will work.
The US state department relaxed sanctions that had prevented internet and communication networks from operating in Iran.
Under the new guidelines, US technology companies can provide secure platforms and services within Iran without violating restrictions that usually prevent dealings with Iran. Private satellite internet equipment, which could include Musk's Starlink service, will be allowed to be exported.
A senior administration official said the National Security Council, Treasury, and other US officials had spoken with Starlink about providing the service in Tehran.
The official encouraged all methods of expanding and sustaining internet access in Iran. The private sector helps Iranians connect and we are taking our own steps to help.
Specific licenses or permission for business related to internet freedom in Iran will be prioritized by the US Treasury.
Ofac would welcome a specific license for activity aimed at Iranians if it was determined that it required one. The state department spokesman said that if the activity is already authorized and there are any questions, Ofac will be happy to engage with it.
The Treasury and state department gave Starlink permission to do business in Iran on Friday.
Brian O'Toole, a non-resident senior fellow at the Atlantic Council who used to be a senior, said that a lot of this was geared towards Iranians getting access to the virtual private network and tunneling out.
If it's not possible to get large quantities of Starlink equipment into Iran, it will need some coordination with Iran. "Anything that has an intersection with the Iranian government would probably need a specific license."
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