Concerns after satellite provider restricts Iran images following US pressure

Satellite Imagery Restrictions in Iran Spark Worry Amid US Influence

Following a directive from the US government, Planet Labs, a prominent satellite imaging firm based in California, has limited access to images of Iran and much of the Middle East. This action has raised alarms among humanitarian groups and media outlets, who rely on such visuals to track the consequences of the ongoing conflict between the US and Israel in the region. Initially, Planet introduced a 14-day hold on new imagery from the area in March, but this has now escalated to an indefinite block.

The move restricts the ability of journalists and analysts to evaluate the effects of the war, including damage to military installations and civilian facilities. The reason behind the US’s intervention remains unclear, as the Department of Defense has not provided comments on the matter. Planet explained that the initial delay was to prevent adversaries from using its imagery to target allies and NATO partners. It further stated that it is now shifting to a “managed distribution” system, releasing specific images on a case-by-case basis until the perceived security threat is resolved.

Details about the scope of the restrictions are not fully disclosed, though BBC Verify’s access to the platform suggests the ban extends across most of the Middle East, including Iraq, Lebanon, Israel, and Gaza. A satellite imaging specialist noted that companies with military contracts, like Planet, may comply with “voluntary” requests influenced by commercial interests rather than legal obligations. This dynamic creates a situation where the line between voluntary and mandatory actions blurs, especially when a major customer is also the regulatory authority.

Humanitarian Challenges and Regional Impact

Geospatial analyst Bill Greer, who co-founded Common Space, highlighted that defense contracts provide governments leverage over satellite providers. “The security risk isn’t always a legal requirement—it’s often driven by commercial incentives,” he said to BBC Verify. “When your largest client is the same government that oversees your operations, the distinction becomes minimal.” The restrictions have hindered humanitarian efforts, as groups like Oxfam use satellite data to manage logistics during crises. Magnus Corfixen, Oxfam’s humanitarian lead, explained that in Gaza, where Planet has suspended coverage, imagery was crucial for monitoring water systems and planning aid distribution.

Previously, there were delays in Gaza imagery, but the current indefinite pause marks a significant shift. BBC Verify has depended on such data to report on developments in the region, as Israeli authorities prevent independent media from entering the territory. The new policy complicates efforts to document human rights issues and assess infrastructure damage, leaving analysts and organizations reliant on satellite feeds with fewer options for real-time insights.