Iran’s envoy in Dhaka alleges Starlink spread disinformation during Iran protests

Iran’s Ambassador to Bangladesh Jalil Rahimi Jahanabadi has alleged that disinformation was spread across Iran through the Starlink satellite internet service during recent protests in Iran, contributing to unrest and loss of life.

His remarks came during a media briefing at the Iranian Embassy in Dhaka on Monday (January 19).

The ambassador said misleading information was deliberately disseminated using advanced information technology, while armed groups exploited public discontent and received training to incite violence nationwide.

He claimed that these actions led to an escalation of casualties during the protests.

Jahanabadi alleged that the violence was initiated by armed insurgents who first attacked law enforcement agencies, after which Western countries intervened. He also claimed the entire process was carried out with planning, guidance and strategic support from the United States.

When asked about possible intelligence failures in handling the protests, the envoy did not respond directly but said Iran had succeeded in shutting down propaganda operations conducted through foreign satellite networks.

The ambassador did not provide specific figures on the number of people killed during the unrest.

Starlink is a US-based satellite internet service owned by tech entrepreneur Elon Musk.