The US government has requested satellite imaging company Planet Labs to indefinitely limit the distribution of imagery related to the war in Iran. In a notice sent to its clients, the company announced that it would suspend the publication of satellite images from Iran and conflict zones across the Middle East in line with this request.
Planet Labs stated that it will transition to a “managed access” model following the decision. Under this system, imagery will only be shared on a case-by-case basis for urgent, mission-critical, or public interest purposes.
Company officials noted that the US government has asked satellite imagery providers to indefinitely delay the distribution of images from conflict zones. The new policy is expected to remain in effect until the war ends.
Previously reduced image release speed
Planet Labs had already slowed the release of imagery from the region, citing concerns that the data could be used by US “adversaries.”
In early March, the company introduced a 14-day delay in publishing imagery, and has now expanded this restriction into a broader limitation.
Satellite imagery can be used for military purposes such as target identification, weapons guidance, missile tracking, and communications. At the same time, it remains a critical tool for journalists, researchers, and human rights organizations to verify developments on the ground.
As one of the largest customers of commercial satellite data, the US government holds significant influence over such companies. This influence can play a decisive role in decisions to restrict data access during times of crisis.
Meanwhile, some other satellite companies have also taken additional measures to limit access to imagery from the Middle East, although not all of these actions are directly tied to requests from the US government.