News

Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX, has found himself entangled in a dispute with the Israeli government after offering to provide satellite internet to Gaza. However, Israeli ministers argue that Hamas, the governing authority in Gaza, will use the internet for “terrorist purposes”. Musk made the announcement on social media platform X, stating that his SpaceX Starlink satellite network would support communications in Gaza for internationally recognized aid organizations. This move came after a blackout in cellular and internet connectivity in Gaza, leaving the majority of the population cut off from the outside world.

The blackout created an information vacuum during the intense aerial bombardment that Gaza experienced, making it difficult for international aid agencies to communicate with their staff on the ground and hampering civilian recovery efforts. The World Health Organization also reported that the blackout hindered ambulances from locating the injured. Thankfully, most of the network has been restored.

Musk’s involvement was prompted by a direct appeal from a doctor in Gaza, who highlighted the urgent need for internet access. In response to concerns raised by Israeli Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi, who argued that Hamas would exploit the internet for terrorist activities, Musk clarified that no terminals from Gaza had attempted to connect with SpaceX’s network. He assured that if any communication was attempted, they would take extraordinary measures to ensure it was used solely for humanitarian reasons. Musk also stated that they would conduct security checks with both the US and Israeli governments before enabling any communication.

It is worth noting that Musk’s role in conflicts has attracted scrutiny, particularly following the publication of his biography. The book revealed how he denied Ukraine the use of Starlink for a naval drone strike on Russian ships in Crimea, fearing potential nuclear repercussions. Musk’s peace proposals involving Russia and Ukraine also drew criticism, with Kyiv accusing him of echoing President Putin’s rhetoric.

Moreover, Musk sparked controversy with a post on social media sympathizing with Iran. This came shortly after the US launched retaliatory airstrikes on Iranian targets in Syria. The post featured a map of Iran surrounded by US flags, accompanied by the caption “Iran wants war. Look how close they put their country to our military bases.”

Musk’s involvement in international conflicts continues to capture public attention, emphasizing the complex dynamics surrounding technology, geopolitics, and humanitarian crises.

The post Elon Musk Offers Satellite Internet to Gaza Amidst Conflict appeared first on satProviders.