Lebanese citizens are hoping for a long-awaited solution to the country’s persistent internet problems following the Cabinet’s approval of a license for Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite internet service, to operate in Lebanon.

What is Starlink?

Starlink is a satellite-based internet system developed by Musk’s SpaceX, designed to provide high-speed connectivity to underserved areas where traditional internet infrastructure is limited or absent. The system relies on thousands of low Earth orbit satellites, interconnected to form a mesh network capable of delivering fast and reliable internet access.

How will it operate in Lebanon?

Tony Saad, spokesperson for Communications Minister Charles Hajj, said Starlink has set up a company in Lebanon and obtained its license after approximately six months of negotiations with the government. Access will initially be limited to businesses, with subscription plans starting at $100 per month.

Are privacy and security concerns valid?

Roland Abi Najem, a digital transformation and cybersecurity expert, told Kataeb.org that Lebanon’s cybersecurity landscape has long been vulnerable. He recalled that Hezbollah’s late Secretary-General, Hassan Nasrallah, had warned about the risks of internet-connected devices, urging supporters to disconnect them due to known network breaches. Abi Najem noted that the state-run telecommunications provider Ogero has not maintained its network since 2019, and cited former Minister Ali Hamiyeh’s remark that Lebanon’s cybersecurity strategy had remained dormant since 2017.

“Lebanon is exposed on multiple fronts,” Abi Najem said. “Any internet use carries inherent hacking risks. Starlink is optional; it is just another internet provider. Those who want to use it may do so, just like any other service.”

“Those concerned about an American company providing internet in Lebanon already use Apple and Windows systems, so why fear Starlink specifically?”

Potential benefits

Abi Najem highlighted several advantages. First, Starlink provides a secondary source of internet, offering a safeguard against outages. Lebanon currently relies on a single undersea cable for international connectivity, which, if damaged—as has happened in other countries—can trigger major disruptions.

Second, Starlink requires only a satellite dish and a router to access the service, thus eliminating dependence on Lebanon’s outdated network infrastructure. Telecom providers Alfa, Touch, and Ogero still rely in part on old telephone lines, resulting in poor coverage in some areas.

Third, Starlink introduces competition to the Lebanese market, potentially improving service quality and lowering costs for private businesses. Lebanon currently suffers from some of the region’s most expensive and unreliable internet, making this development particularly promising.