Concerns after satellite provider restricts Iran images following US pressure

Concerns after satellite provider restricts Iran images following US pressure

Satellite imagery firm Planet Labs has faced criticism from humanitarian groups and media outlets after implementing an indefinite ban on images of Iran and much of the Middle East, reportedly at the behest of the U.S. government. The company, based in California, first introduced a 14-day hold on new regional imagery in March, which has now evolved into a full suspension. This shift has hampered efforts by journalists, aid organizations, and analysts to monitor the consequences of the ongoing conflict between the U.S.-backed Israel and Iran, including the status of military installations and civilian facilities.

The exact reason for the U.S. intervention remains unclear, with the Department of Defense declining to comment when asked. Planet Labs explained its initial delay as a precautionary measure to prevent adversaries from exploiting its data to target allies and civilians. In a statement to BBC Verify, the company stated it would now adopt a “managed distribution” approach, releasing selected images on a case-by-case basis until the threat to security is resolved. However, the scope of the restrictions is not fully disclosed, though BBC Verify’s access to the platform suggests the ban applies broadly across the Middle East, including Iraq, Lebanon, Israel, and Gaza.

Commercial incentives may drive compliance

A satellite imaging specialist noted to BBC Verify that companies with defense contracts, like Planet, often comply with “voluntary requests” that are shaped by commercial interests rather than legal requirements. “When your biggest client is also the regulatory authority, the distinction between voluntary and mandatory actions becomes blurry,” the analyst remarked. This has raised concerns about the potential influence of government pressure on the company’s operations, even as it maintains independence in its decisions.

Humanitarian organizations, such as Oxfam, rely heavily on satellite data to coordinate relief efforts during crises. Their logistics in Gaza, for instance, depend on imagery to evaluate the functionality of water, sanitation, and hygiene (Wash) systems, as on-site access is often restricted. “Satellite services allowed us to determine if infrastructure was still intact or damaged,” said Magnus Corfixen, Oxfam’s humanitarian lead. The current restrictions, which have not been seen before, now threaten to disrupt these critical operations.

Defense sector partnerships

Planet Labs has strengthened its ties with U.S. defense entities, including the National Geospatial Intelligence Agency and the Navy via a subsidiary. It also collaborates with the German and Swedish militaries. Meanwhile, Vantor (formerly Maxar) has contracts with the U.S. Army and Space Force, limiting coverage of military bases. However, Vantor stated it had not received direct orders from Pentagon officials to restrict its imagery of Iran.

Investigative journalist Benjamin Strick highlighted the growing reliance on satellite data for reporting in conflict zones, where physical access is limited or information is tightly controlled. “Satellite imagery is essential for tracking events in areas where journalists can’t operate freely,” he said. The indefinite suspension of coverage in Iran and the Middle East now poses a significant challenge to this vital resource, affecting both real-time reporting and long-term analysis.