SpaceX submits official application to launch Starlink internet services in the Kurdistan Region

ARK News.. The Kurdistan Regional Government's Ministry of Transport and Communications announced on Monday, July 13, 2026, that SpaceX has formally applied to operate and provide Starlink satellite internet services in the Kurdistan Region, confirming that a series of official meetings have been held between the two sides to discuss implementation mechanisms.

According to a ministry statement, SpaceX expressed its interest in entering the Kurdistan market in early June and subsequently submitted an official request to activate its services across the Region.

The statement noted that following an exchange of correspondence, an official meeting was held on June 30, 2026, bringing together a specialized team from the Kurdistan Regional Government and representatives of the global company.

Representing the KRG were the Director General of Post and Telecommunications, the ministry's legal director, the minister's chief of staff, and a representative of the Council of Ministers. SpaceX was represented by its Middle East regional supervisor and the company's licensing officer.

The discussions focused on operational procedures, with the ministry outlining the Kurdistan Region's technical and legal requirements. Officials emphasized that these conditions are designed to serve the public interest while considering the Region's specific needs.

The Ministry of Transport and Communications welcomed the initiative, describing Starlink as one of the world's most advanced internet technologies and stressing the importance of making it available in the Kurdistan Region.

The ministry added that the project would diversify internet services and provide users with broader connectivity options once all technical and regulatory requirements are completed.

Ministry spokesperson Dylan Rashad revealed further details about the negotiations, confirming that all administrative preparations have been completed and that a draft proposal outlining operational procedures has been submitted to the relevant authorities.

“Once the final assessments are completed and approved, the company will be able to begin operations directly,” Rashad said.

He noted that Starlink pricing is largely standardized worldwide and is aimed at specific sectors and users, as its costs remain higher than conventional cable and fiber-optic internet services. Therefore, he said, Starlink is not expected to compete directly with local internet providers that offer lower-cost services.

Rashad explained that the primary objective is to extend internet access to remote and mountainous areas lacking telecommunications infrastructure and fiber-optic networks, making residents of those regions the main beneficiaries of the service.

He also reassured the public that the ministry has included strict provisions in the agreement regarding data protection, information security, and user privacy.

According to the ministry, Starlink services in the Kurdistan Region will operate through an official local agent, providing direct technical support and ensuring legal and regulatory compliance. This model differs from some countries where the service is offered solely online and is intended to ensure close coordination with government institutions and subscribers.

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