Space X will seek exemption from US sanctions to provide internet services in Iran, says Musk

Space X will seek an exception from US sanctions for providingsatellite internet services to Iran,its owner Elon Musk said on Monday, responding to a tweet from a science reporter.

Erfan Kasarei, a science journalist, tweeted that expanding services to Iran might be a "real game changer" for the future of the country, prompting Musk's response.

Iran has been subject to strict US sanctions since former US President Donald Trump terminated the Iran-US nuclear deal over Iran's nuclear activities.

Tehran has repeatedly requested talks with Washington, and even the current US President Joe Biden wants to resume the deal, but this time Iran wants strong guarantees that no future American president will cancel it, AFP reported.

Launched in 2020, Starlink aims to provide effortless and strong connectivity to its customers on every continent, even in Antarctica, through its constellations of satellites in low earth orbit, Elon Musk claimed in his initial statements.

Space X gained attention after providing antennas and modems to the Ukrainian military to help it enhance its communications during its ongoing conflict with Russia.

Till now, nearly 3,000 Starlink satellites have been launched into Earth's low orbit. The company intends to launch 42,000 satellites to boost connectivity for its customers. The company is taking all possible actions to make it possible by launching at least one satellite every week with its own Falcon 9 rockets.

In response to a recentsignificant cyberattack against Albania carried out by Iranian intelligence in July, the US imposed additional sanctions on Iran.

(With inputs from agencies)

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