Israel’s Communications Ministry announced on Tuesday that it is in discussions with SpaceX to deploy Starlink internet services.
The move aims to bolster wartime communications as Israel prepares for a possible ground invasion in the Gaza Strip. This development comes in the wake of a deadly cross-border invasion on October 7, which resulted in the deaths of more than 1,400 Israelis, primarily civilians.
In response, the Israeli army has launched extensive airstrikes in Gaza, leading to over 2,800 Palestinian casualties. Israel has also cut off fuel, water, and electricity supplies to the Hamas-controlled territory and has mobilized hundreds of thousands of troops along the front lines.
According to a spokesperson for Israel’s Communications Ministry, the Starlink services would ensure uninterrupted internet access for towns on the front lines. This would mark the first time Israel has relied on Starlink, which would serve as a backup if other systems are disrupted, reports Bloomberg.
The ministry is also contemplating the disconnection of internet and phone services to Gaza. Additionally, it confirmed plans to close the Israel offices of the Qatari state-owned news network Al-Jazeera, accusing it of serving as a platform for “Hamas propaganda, incitement, and harm to national security during wartime.”
This wouldn’t be the first time Starlink would be used for military purposes. Ukraine is leveraging Starlink to fight Russia’s invasion in its own war.
