Starlink has become an unofficial communications backbone in Venezuela, highlighting how Elon Musk’s satellite network now shapes information access during political upheaval.

The Federal Communications Commission said on Friday it has approved SpaceX's request to deploy another 7,500 second-generation Starlink satellites as it works to boost internet service worldwide.

Recent events have left Venezuela with its communications infrastructure damaged. Elon Musk's Starlink has stepped in to restore access for existing users.

The inquiry surfaced as internet monitors and media reported near-total connectivity loss across Iran, renewing attention on satellite internet as a tool to bypass state shutdowns. Deputy Minister Almog Cohen,

The FCC's partial grant lets SpaceX operate 7,500 more satellites, for a total of over 19,000 in Earth's orbit, and use even more radio bands at higher power limits.

Starlink offers free internet access to Venezuela through Feb. 3 after U.S. forces arrested President Maduro on federal narco-terrorism charges.

The Ukranian military has relied heavily on Starlink satellites for communications since Russia invaded in 2022, but this response seems implausible.

In a Sunday blog post on its website, Starlink – which is owned by Musk’s rocket company SpaceX – said it was adding service credits to both active and inactive accounts.

Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite internet reportedly bypasses Iran’s nationwide blackout, allowing protesters to stay connected during escalating unrest

The Federal Communications Commission said on Friday it has approved SpaceX's request to deploy another 7,500 second-generation Starlink satellites as it works to boost internet service worldwide. The FCC said Elon Musk's SpaceX can now operate an additional 7,

Elon Musk has once again claimed that Starlink is not being allowed to operate in South Africa because he is not black. In 2025, the South African telecom regulatory body had claimed that Starlink had not applied for a licence to start operations in the country.