US Government Asks Planet Labs to Halt West Asia Satellite Imagery Release Amid Iran Conflict

Planet Labs, a leading provider of satellite imagery, has confirmed it is suspending the public distribution of imagery covering West Asia following a request from the U.S. government. The decision comes as the region is embroiled in an ongoing conflict involving Iran.

The San Francisco-based company, known for its high-frequency Earth observation data, stated it was complying with a government directive. While the specific legal basis for the request was not detailed, such actions are typically made on national security grounds.

"We can confirm we have received a request from the U.S. government to suspend the public dissemination of imagery of certain areas in West Asia," a Planet Labs spokesperson said. "We are complying with this request."

This move restricts access to timely, commercial satellite data for media outlets, researchers, and analysts who regularly use Planet's imagery to monitor developments in the region. The suspension highlights the tension between open-source intelligence and government controls over sensitive information during active military conflicts.

The request follows a pattern of U.S. authorities intervening in the availability of commercial satellite data from conflict zones. Imagery from private companies has played a significant role in documenting events in Ukraine and Gaza, providing an alternative to official statements.

Planet Labs operates a large constellation of Dove satellites, providing daily or near-daily imagery of the Earth's landmass. The company's data is widely used in agriculture, forestry, and government applications.