Authorities in Iran have arrested two foreign nationals in the country’s northwest over allegations tied to the illegal importation of satellite internet equipment, including devices linked to Starlink.
According to reports by Tasnim News Agency, the suspects were apprehended on Sunday in Jolfa, a city in East Azerbaijan province, by security operatives acting on intelligence.
The city’s public prosecutor was quoted as saying the arrests were connected to efforts to smuggle in satellite internet hardware, which remains prohibited under Iranian law.
Authorities further alleged that the two foreign nationals are part of a wider network suspected of engaging in intelligence cooperation with groups linked to the United States and Israel—a claim that has not been independently verified.
In addition to the foreign suspects, two Iranian citizens were also detained. One is accused of attempting to transmit sensitive information through what officials described as “hostile satellite networks,” while the other allegedly participated in intelligence-related activities.
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The crackdown comes amid heightened tensions and strict information controls, as Iran has remained largely disconnected from the global internet since the outbreak of hostilities involving Israel and the United States on February 28.
Satellite-based internet services such as Starlink are officially banned in Iran, with authorities maintaining tight restrictions on communication channels during periods of geopolitical strain.
The arrests highlight Tehran’s continued efforts to control digital access and counter perceived foreign influence, particularly during times of conflict and national security concerns.