Iran is considering attacking SpaceX and Starlink facilities in the Middle East as retaliation for recent threats from United States President Donald Trump. The state-run Fars News Agency reported this Thursday (11) that Tehran reserves the right to target assets linked to Elon Musk in the region.
The statement comes hours after Trump reiterated warnings that the US could bomb Iran “very hard” this evening if there is no progress in negotiations. The American president specifically mentioned control of the island of Kharg, responsible for around 90% of Iranian oil exports, and other energy infrastructure points.
Dual use of Starlink fuels tension
Starlink, banned in Iran, became an essential tool for opponents of the regime during government-imposed internet blackouts. Protestants used system terminals to maintain communication and disseminate images of repression. In parallel, the American government purchased thousands of kits and sent them to the country to support dissidents, especially after the wave of protests in January 2026.
Reports indicate that Starlink also played a role in US and allied military operations during the 40-day conflict with Iran, although Musk disputed details in a Reuters report about misuse of civilian terminals on drones. The billionaire admitted violating terms of service, but attributed responsibility to third parties.
What changes in practice
The Iranian threat raises the risk to SpaceX’s satellite infrastructure and ground stations in countries such as Israel, Qatar, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates and Oman. Any direct or cyber attack could affect not only civilian communications, but also military and intelligence operations in the region. For Iran, the movement represents an asymmetrical form of response to American pressure on oil and infrastructure.
The episode highlights the growing militarization of space and the reliance on private companies like SpaceX in modern conflicts — a pattern seen before in Ukraine but now tested in the Middle East with direct implications for global connectivity and energy stability.