Iran Formally Protests Norway Over Starlink Operations in Iranian Territory

Iran’s International Peace and Security Department formally protested Norway’s handling of Starlink operations within Iranian territory on Sunday ^[1], escalating a dispute over satellite internet infrastructure that Tehran frames as a tool for foreign interference.

The director of the department summoned Paul Bivar Nistads, Norway’s ambassador to Tehran, and delivered an official complaint regarding what Iranian officials characterize as unauthorized Starlink activities ^[1][2][3]. According to Iranian sources, the protest centered on allegations that the United States and Israel are exploiting Starlink systems to conduct “interference operations” against Iran ^[1][2][3].

The complaint specifically targeted Norway’s role as the registering country for Starlink within the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), a UN-affiliated body that coordinates global radio frequency use ^[1]. Iranian officials cited decisions by the ITU’s Radio Regulations Board (RRB) in recent years that they argue obligate Norway to take measures preventing unauthorized Starlink transmissions within Iranian territory ^[1]. Despite repeated Iranian diplomatic efforts, according to the protest, no effective action from the Norwegian government has materialized ^[1].

This represents a tactical shift in how Tehran is approaching technology-based security concerns. Rather than lodging complaints solely against Washington or Tel Aviv, Iran is directing formal diplomatic pressure at a NATO member over what it views as regulatory negligence. The move reflects Tehran’s broader frustration with what it sees as Western technological dominance and the weaponization of commercial infrastructure.

Starlink’s constellation of low-earth-orbit satellites provides global internet coverage with minimal ground infrastructure – a feature that makes it both valuable for connectivity in remote areas and, from Iran’s security perspective, difficult to control or block. Iran has previously attempted to restrict access to the service, viewing it as a vector for external influence during periods of domestic unrest.

The timing coincides with heightened regional tensions and ongoing U.S. sanctions pressure on Iran’s economy ^[4], which has seen its currency depreciate sharply in recent months. The protest suggests Tehran sees technological sovereignty as increasingly central to its security doctrine – not merely a military or economic matter, but one touching on information control and domestic stability.

Norway’s diplomatic position is complicated. As both an ITU member and a NATO ally, Oslo faces pressure from multiple directions: formal Iranian complaints, Western security interests, and the technical reality that no single country can unilaterally block satellite services operating in international space. The Norwegian Foreign Ministry has not yet publicly responded to the protest.