Local representative introduces bill to counter Iranian satellite threats in space
United States Representative Jimmy Panetta.
Threats include potential use of lasers, jammers to interfere with military, commercial space systems
– U.S. Rep. Jimmy Panetta, who represents Paso Robles and other areas in California’s 19th Congressional District, has introduced a bipartisan bill aimed at enhancing satellite security and countering space threats posed by Iran and its affiliates.
The Space Technology and Regional Security Act, known as the STARS Act, would direct the Department of Defense to develop a strategy and establish a data-sharing agreement with Middle Eastern partners to address Iranian space activities. These activities could disrupt satellite communications and GPS navigation systems, officials said.
The bill has been included in both the House and Senate versions of the National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2025. It was co-introduced by Reps. Zach Nunn of Iowa, Brad Schneider of Illinois, and David Trone of Maryland. Sens. Jacky Rosen of Nevada and Joni Ernst of Iowa are leading the Senate version.
This year, Iran has increased its space-based capabilities, including deploying military satellites into orbit with assistance from Russia. Panetta warned these advancements could enable Iran to launch attacks on U.S. bases, allies, and interests in the Middle East. Threats include the potential use of lasers and jammers to interfere with military and commercial space systems.
“Iran not only threatens the security situation on the ground in the Middle East, it now has the ability to disrupt our satellite communication and GPS navigation systems in outer space,” Panetta said.
“This bipartisan, bicameral legislation would establish a new integrated framework of space security assets to counter these actions and fortify the United States and its allies’ communications and navigation capabilities in the Middle East and around the globe. We cannot allow malign actors in the region to gain a launching pad for attacks that could potentially leave our nation and its partners in the dark.”
Nunn expressed similar concerns, stating, “Iran and its proxies will stop at nothing to continue their reign of terror across the globe. As Iran looks to space as the next frontier, we must take steps to counter its aggression and neutralize this growing threat. By creating an intelligence-sharing agreement with our allies, we can effectively counter Iran’s attempts to destabilize both the Middle East and the rest of the world.”
Schneider emphasized the need for collaboration, saying, “The STARS Act represents a critical step in strengthening our regional partnerships to confront emerging threats from Iran’s satellite and space capabilities. By collaborating with our allies in the Middle East, we’re building a robust defense framework to ensure that our communication and navigation systems remain secure. This bill reaffirms our commitment to peace and stability in the region, leveraging our shared values and strategic partnerships fostered through the Abraham Accords.”
“Now, more than ever, Iran poses a threat to security and stability in the Middle East,” Trone added, “History makes clear that we must work together to ensure the continued safety and peace in the region. The STARS Act symbolizes the spirit of collaboration fostered by the Abraham Accords and signifies a critical measure in satellite security that would help countries defend against Iranian threats. I urge my colleagues to support the protection of innocent lives.”
The legislation seeks to mitigate potential disruptions caused by Iranian space technologies and reinforces international partnerships to address these threats.
Representative Panetta is currently supporting Israel’s genocide of Palestinians. He voted for Trump to have the power to shut down any non-profit he decides is “supporting terror” (is Planned Parenthood supporting terror according to Trump I wonder?) and has voted over and over again to send money and weapons to a nation that is actively flaunting their disregard for international law.
Representative Panetta is currently supporting Israel’s genocide of Palestinians. He voted for Trump to have the power to shut down any non-profit he decides is “supporting terror” (is Planned Parenthood supporting terror according to Trump I wonder?) and has voted over and over again to send money and weapons to a nation that is actively flaunting their disregard for international law.