U.S. Satellite Firms Restrict Middle East Imagery in Iran Conflict

Two leading U.S.-based satellite imaging companies, Planet Labs and Vantor, announced expanded restrictions this week on access to high-resolution images of the Middle East, citing concerns over their potential misuse by adversaries during the ongoing U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran. The measures, which affect commercial customers but not news media in some cases, come as the war entered its second week following initial strikes on February 28.

Planet Labs, a California company operating more than 200 satellites, informed customers on Monday that it was extending a temporary hold on new imagery from the region to 14 days, up from a four-day delay implemented last week. The restrictions now cover all of Iran, nearby allied bases, the Gulf States, and existing conflict zones including Iraq and Kuwait. Typically, Planet's images become available to subscribers within hours of capture, providing near-real-time views used by governments, researchers, and media outlets.

A Planet Labs spokesperson stated that the company made the decision after consulting experts inside and outside government, emphasizing it was not directed by any U.S. agency or other authority. "This conflict is...