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France Weighs Sending Eutelsat Terminals to Bypass Iran’s Internet Blackout

The plan under review positions Eutelsat as a state-backed alternative to Starlink for Iranians under a sweeping blackout.

Overview

  • French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot told lawmakers Paris is exploring options that include sending Eutelsat satellite terminals to Iran.
  • Reuters reports a near-total shutdown of internet services in Iran during a deadly crackdown on protests reported to have killed thousands.
  • Some users inside Iran have connected to Elon Musk’s Starlink, according to local sources, though access appears limited.
  • NetBlocksAlp Toker said Starlink connectivity in Iran has been reduced, indicating constrained satellite access overall.
  • Eutelsat, backed by France and the UK and operating the only other LEO constellation besides Starlink, did not respond to requests for comment.