Elon Musk’s social media platform, X (formerly Twitter), stands accused of potentially violating U.S. sanctions by providing premium subscription services to Iranian government officials, state media outlets, and agencies, according to a report by the Tech Transparency Project (TTP). While Musk publicly voiced support for Iranian protesters and even offered satellite internet access during a nationwide blackout, his company simultaneously appears to have been profiting from the same regime officials he criticized.
Premium Access for Sanctioned Entities
The TTP identified over two dozen X accounts allegedly operated by Iranian government figures, which featured verified blue check marks – a benefit exclusive to X Premium subscribers. These accounts actively disseminated state-sponsored propaganda during periods when ordinary Iranians were cut off from the internet. The premium service, costing $8 to $40 monthly, also artificially boosts content reach, amplifying the Iranian government’s messaging.
The timing is particularly sensitive given escalating tensions between the U.S. and Iran over nuclear enrichment and ballistic missiles. By providing a platform for Iranian officials, X potentially undermines U.S. sanctions efforts, as noted by Katie Paul of TTP: “Elon Musk is not just platforming these individuals, but taking their money to boost their content…he’s undermining the sanctions.”
Rapid Response and Remaining Violations
Following inquiries from WIRED, X removed blue check marks from some identified accounts belonging to Iranian officials. However, many others remain verified, continuing to display premium access. The White House deferred comment to the Treasury Department, which stated it takes sanctionable conduct “extremely seriously” without addressing the specific allegations.
Context: Protests and Regime Crackdown
The accusations emerge amid widespread protests in Iran sparked by economic instability and calls for regime change. The government responded with brutal repression, arresting tens of thousands and killing an unknown number of protesters. Musk publicly supported the demonstrators, even promising free Starlink access, yet his platform allegedly continued to profit from sanctioned officials.
High-Profile Sanctioned Officials Paying for Access
Among those identified by TTP are Ali Larijani, a senior aide to Iran’s supreme leader, and Ali Akbar Velayati, a former foreign minister and sanctioned for supporting the Assad regime in Syria. Both had blue check marks until recently, indicating payment for X Premium. Velayati is also wanted by Argentina for the 1994 bombing of a Jewish community center.
Legal Gray Areas and Potential Violations
U.S. sanctions do permit tech companies to provide “publicly available” services to Iran “at no cost.” However, if X provided premium features for a fee or services unavailable to the public without a license, it could violate sanctions. Lawyers specializing in OFAC regulations suggest that even accepting cryptocurrency payments from sanctioned entities could constitute illegal financial dealings.
Musk’s History and Warren’s Criticism
This isn’t the first time Musk has faced scrutiny over sanctions compliance. Senator Elizabeth Warren previously questioned X’s provision of blue checks to sanctioned terrorists, and now accuses the platform of further undermining national security.
In conclusion, the accusations against X raise serious questions about its commitment to U.S. sanctions enforcement. While the platform has taken some corrective action, the remaining verified accounts and potential financial violations demand further scrutiny.
