June 6, 2024
In a significant move to bolster space and satellite security, U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Joni Ernst (R-IA) have introduced the bipartisan Space Technology and Regional Security (STARS) Act.
This legislation aims to counter the growing space threats posed by Iran and its proxies by enhancing cooperation among the United States and its Middle Eastern allies and partners.
The STARS Act builds on the foundation of the Abraham Accords, a series of agreements that have already strengthened diplomatic and security ties between Israel and several Arab nations.
The new bill mandates the Department of Defense to develop a comprehensive strategy and data-sharing agreement to protect allies in the Middle East from hostile Iranian space activities.
This initiative is expected to improve U.S. space situational awareness, defend against adversarial threats, and deepen space cooperation with Israel and other regional allies.
Senator Rosen emphasized the urgency of this legislation, stating, “As Iran and its terrorist proxies escalate their aggression against Israel and continue to destabilize the Middle East, it’s critical that we work with our allies in the region to bolster collaboration in all areas of defense. I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation to strengthen space and satellite security cooperation with our allies and partners in the Middle East, and improve collective security to address urgent threats from Iran.”
Senator Ernst highlighted the strategic importance of the STARS Act, noting, “The next step to ending Iranian aggression is by deepening the United States’ international space partnerships to improve awareness of the Middle East. After the success of the DEFEND Act and MARITIME Act in intercepting Iran-backed attacks at land and sea, the STARS Act will adapt this model to space and use 21st Century technology to deter Iran.”
Both Senators Rosen and Ernst are founding members and co-chairs of the bipartisan Senate Abraham Accords Caucus.
They have been at the forefront of efforts to enhance security cooperation between the U.S. and its Middle Eastern allies.
Their previous bipartisan initiatives, including the MARITIME Act and the DEFEND Act, have successfully addressed maritime and air threats posed by Iran, respectively.
The STARS Act represents the next logical step in this ongoing effort to safeguard regional stability and security.
