Thousands of people were following the Iran war with satellite images from Planet Labs. So the US has closed it

**European Tech Policy Navigates Geopolitical Data Access Concerns** The digital realm's critical role in modern conflict has been underscored by recent developments concerning satellite imagery providers. Planet Labs, a San Francisco-based company operating a vast network of over 200 satellites, has significantly delayed the release of its Middle East imagery, citing protection of personnel and operations. This move, particularly affecting regions with U.S. military presence, has ignited debate about the control and dissemination of vital geospatial intelligence during international tensions. This restriction, initially a four-day delay, has been extended to 14 days, impacting the public's real-time access to events on the ground. Planet Labs stated its aim is to prevent its data from being used in attacks against allied personnel or civilians. The controversy highlights the delicate balance between open data access for transparency and the security imperatives faced by companies operating in sensitive geopolitical areas, with a significant portion of its daily coverage exceeding 300 million square kilometers. The implications extend beyond immediate conflict monitoring, raising questions about the strategic control of information flows by U.S. entities. As Europe increasingly prioritizes digital sovereignty, such incidents emphasize the need for robust, independent European capabilities in data acquisition and analysis to ensure unbiased situational awareness in global events. The continent's policy discussions will likely intensify regarding the development of European alternatives to privately held, globally dominant data platforms.