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Musk's Agreement with Israel Restricts Starlink Operations in Gaza

Musk's Agreement with Israel Restricts Starlink Operations in Gaza
Monday 27 November 2023 - 15:30
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Elon Musk's SpaceX has recently reached an agreement with the state of Israel, permitting the operation of Starlink satellite internet terminals exclusively with explicit approval from Israeli authorities, as revealed by Israeli Minister of Communications Shlomo Karhi.

This development follows Musk's October tweet, where he committed to providing communication links to "internationally recognized aid organizations" in Gaza. The region's telecom infrastructure had suffered damage during the recent conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Minister Karhi publicly announced the successful negotiations with Musk on social media, celebrating a "significant agreement." Under this agreement, SpaceX's Starlink devices are now required to obtain approval from the Minister's office before functioning in Gaza. This arrangement effectively grants Israel oversight and control over the presence of Starlink in the Palestinian territory, subject to a blockade since 2007.

Critics perceive this deal as Musk yielding to government demands to access a new market. Moreover, it dampens hopes that Starlink could significantly improve connectivity for civilians in Gaza who face challenges under the strain of Israeli restrictions.


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