Iran’s parliament has passed a sweeping new law that criminalizes the use of unauthorized digital communication tools, including Starlink, the satellite internet network owned by Elon Musk's SpaceX.

The legislation introduces stringent penalties, such as hefty fines, public flogging, and prison sentences of up to two years for individuals caught using unlicensed satellite internet services.

This legal move is aimed at curbing unregulated internet access, particularly technologies that enable Iranians to sidestep government censorship and information controls. Authorities argue the measure is necessary to protect national security and preserve state control over the country’s digital space.

Starlink, which offers high-speed internet access via satellite, has become a popular means for Iranians to bypass restrictions and access unfiltered content especially during government-enforced blackouts, like those that occurred during the recent 12-day conflict with Israel.

For many citizens, satellite connectivity remains one of the few reliable ways to access global news and platforms without interference. The increasing adoption of services like Starlink reflects public frustration with extensive state censorship and the poor reliability of local internet infrastructure.

Iranian officials now claim the unregulated nature of satellite internet poses serious risks. They allege, without providing direct evidence, that such technologies may have been used by foreign intelligence services particularly Israel to maintain covert communications during recent hostilities.

During the Israel-Iran conflict, reports surfaced that thousands of Starlink terminals had been smuggled into Iran to ensure continued internet access despite communication shutdowns.

The law, passed on June 23, underscores growing anxiety within Tehran about foreign influence and the diminishing ability of the regime to control digital narratives.

Officially titled “Increasing the Punishment for Espionage and Collaborating with Israel and Hostile Countries Against National Security and Interests,” the legislation comprises nine clauses and significantly broadens the scope of what is considered a threat to national security.

Under the new provisions, acts of espionage or cooperation with Israel and other perceived enemies of the state can be prosecuted as “corruption on earth” a charge punishable by death under Iranian law.

Capital punishment may also apply to individuals involved in producing or using lethal or unconventional weapons, cyber warfare tools, or advanced drones and robots particularly if these activities are intended to aid adversarial states.

The law also targets financial connections to foreign intelligence networks. Even accepting funds or resources from known foreign agents becomes a criminal offense, regardless of whether the recipient takes any action, provided they are aware of the source’s identity.

Although passed by the legislature, the bill must still be ratified by Iran’s Guardian Council a powerful oversight body that vets parliamentary decisions, oversees elections, and approves candidates for public office.

However, such endorsements are typically procedural and expected to go through without objection.