Starlink in Lebanon: Several appeals filed before State Shura Council

BEIRUT — Starlink’s arrival in Lebanon continues to stir controversy in the country. Even before its Oct. 7 signing, industry players had criticized the ministerial decree granting Elon Musk’s satellite internet provider a two-year license to operate in the country. Now, the decision is facing several appeals before administrative courts.The Telecommunications Ministry’s stated rationale for introducing the service was to bolster nationwide connectivity, ensure “service continuity even during power outages, war or other disruptions,” and increase state revenues.But internet service providers (ISPs) and data service providers (DSPs) argued that such a service could threaten their businesses. In recent weeks, several appeals were filed with the State Shura Council — including one on Nov. 5 by Terranet and Cable One (a DSP) and another on...