Satellite Companies Curb Access to Mideast Imagery Over Concern It Could Be Used "by Adversarial Actors"

TL;DR

Planet Labs and Vantor are restricting access to satellite imagery of Iran and the Middle East.
The companies are concerned that the imagery could be used by adversarial actors to target allied forces and civilians.
This restriction affects journalists and researchers who use satellite data for conflict reporting.
Planet Labs is delaying the release of new imagery of Iran, the Persian Gulf, U.S.-allied bases, and conflict zones for 14 days.
Vantor has controls on imagery from parts of the Middle East, limiting access to sensitive sites.
Both companies have U.S. government contracts, but Vantor stated its decisions were not government-mandated.
Satellite imagery has been vital in documenting destruction and events in conflicts like Ukraine and Gaza.
A specific example cited is a missile strike on a school in Minab, Iran, where satellite imagery helped identify targets.

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