RT reported on February 24, 2026, citing Fars News Agency, that a Dutch diplomat was allegedly caught attempting to bring Starlink terminals and satellite phones into Iran.

According to the report, the diplomat arrived at what is believed to be Imam Khomeini International Airport and refused to allow a suitcase to undergo standard X-ray screening. The refusal reportedly led to a confrontation with customs officials, who confiscated the luggage. RT said the diplomat then departed Iran without attempting to reclaim the items, and that a second Dutch envoy later made an unsuccessful effort to retrieve the seized suitcase.

Iranian media circulated a roughly two-minute video showing grainy security footage inside an airport terminal, where several individuals appear to argue near baggage-screening equipment as officials gather around a conveyor belt and X-ray unit. The footage contains no clear audio explaining the exchange.

Iran tightly restricts Starlink terminals and satellite phones, viewing them as tools that can bypass state internet controls. Reports of smuggling such equipment have surfaced periodically since 2022, particularly during times of unrest.

There has been no public confirmation from the Netherlands government, Reuters, or other major Western outlets, and the claim remains based on Iranian media reporting amplified by RT.

https://video.nostr.build/edbcd96ce179da8e34a342d3a8df8882b9dbd117e069828eca98bc5746592387.mp4