A California-based company is suspending the distribution of satellite images following a US government request to prevent adversaries from utilizing the data.
Planet Labs, a satellite imaging company, has announced a permanent cessation of imagery collection and distribution focusing on Iran and the broader Middle East region. This decision follows a direct request from the United States government, specifically stemming from the ongoing conflict initiated on February 28th when the United States and Israel launched aerial attacks against Iran. The company’s move, communicated to its customer base via email on Saturday, involves a complete “indefinite withhold of imagery.” This expands upon a previously implemented 14-day delay in releasing images of the Middle East, initially a 96-hour extension. Planet Labs justified this initial delay as a protective measure, aiming to safeguard the United States and its allies from potential exploitation of the imagery for hostile purposes. The restriction encompasses all imagery dating back to March 9th and is projected to remain in effect until the cessation of the current conflict. The escalating war has seen Iran responding with missile and drone attacks targeting Israel and American assets, alongside significant damage to civilian infrastructure within the Gulf region. Planet Labs, established in 2010 by former NASA scientists, is transitioning to a system of “managed distribution,” prioritizing imagery that doesn't present a safety risk. This new approach will necessitate a case-by-case review for the release of images for urgent, critical needs or for public benefit. The company emphasized the extraordinary nature of the situation, stating it is striving to fulfill the diverse requirements of its stakeholders. Satellite imagery is utilized by military forces for various purposes, including targeting and weapons guidance, highlighting the strategic importance of controlling access to this data.
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United States & Israel