US Secretly Sent Starlink to Iran During Protests | Iran Unrest 2026

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Government, under former President Donald Trump, secretly delivered approximately 6,000 Starlink satellite internet terminals to Iran amid widespread protests earlier this year. The move, revealed by the Wall Street Journal, bolsters Tehran’s claims of foreign interference in the unrest. This development underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in the region and raises questions about the extent of covert U.S. Involvement in Iranian affairs.

The operation, which officials say was funded by the State Department, followed a large-scale internet shutdown imposed by Iranian authorities in January. The internet blackout was an attempt to quell the growing demonstrations.

According to officials, Trump was aware of the shipments, though it remains unclear whether he personally approved the plan. The Wall Street Journal reported this information on Thursday, February 12, 2026.

Iranian officials have accused Washington and Tel Aviv of instigating the unrest, which began in December as peaceful demonstrations over economic hardship but escalated into widespread violence.

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated last month that more than 3,000 people had been killed, including nearly 700 he described as “terrorists,” along with civilians and security personnel.