Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite internet service has officially launched in Yemen, making it the first country in the Middle East to receive this technology. The announcement was made through a post on X (formerly known as Twitter). Starlink’s goal is to bring high-speed internet to remote areas and places where traditional communication infrastructure is unreliable or unavailable.
However, the launch has faced criticism from Iran-backed Huthi rebels in Yemen. They called Starlink a “direct threat to Yemeni national security” and raised concerns about risks to citizens’ privacy and data protection.
Despite the criticism, Starlink’s network of low Earth orbit satellites has the potential to make a significant difference in Yemen, which is one of the least developed countries in the world. By providing internet access in remote regions, the technology could help bridge the digital gap and improve connectivity, especially for those living in areas without proper infrastructure.
Starlink’s presence in Yemen could support education, healthcare, and other essential services by making the internet more accessible, ultimately contributing to the country’s development despite the political challenges and opposition from certain groups.
