Starlink Secures Approval for Nationwide Satellite Internet Access in Lebanon

The Lebanese government has granted approval for Starlink to provide satellite internet services across the country using technology from SpaceX, founded by Elon Musk. While Lebanon primarily relies on submarine and terrestrial cables for internet connectivity, previous negotiations between SpaceX and the Lebanese government faced challenges due to costs and technical constraints. Additionally, a government source noted that the nomination of customs council members was not on the agenda for the recent meeting, leading to a postponement of the discussion until next week.

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Published Sep 19, 2025

SPACE ECONOMY

In a significant move toward enhancing digital connectivity, the Lebanese government has authorized Starlink to extend satellite internet services across Lebanon, utilizing the advanced technology of SpaceX, the company founded by Elon Musk. Historically, Lebanon's internet infrastructure has depended largely on submarine and terrestrial cables, but the introduction of satellite internet could revolutionize access in the country.

Elon Musk had previously expressed his interest in establishing a presence in Lebanon during a phone call with President Joseph Aoun in June 2025. However, negotiations with SpaceX had faltered under the administration of former Prime Minister Nagib Mikati, primarily due to high service costs and a technical stipulation that required Lebanon to host data management servers in Qatar or Germany. This condition raised concerns about compliance with Lebanon's Law No. 81 on personal data protection.

In the context of these developments, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam received a delegation from the French group Eutelsat, which specializes in satellite internet services, suggesting that discussions with Starlink had stalled. Meanwhile, a government source disclosed that the appointment of members to the higher customs council was not addressed in the latest session, as the names of proposed candidates had not been submitted in time, resulting in a delay of the debate until the following week.