Untrue — there is a large market for Apple devices, iPhones are super popular in Iran. Fun fact, IRL stores use iMacs because it looks good but they install Windows on them to be able to use their legacy Windows accounting software :)
Fun fact - back in 2009, iPhone 3GS sold in China does not have WiFi feature. If that's possible, I can totally see a new iPhone model with restricted satellite feature selling in Iran and China.
At the same time, I can see Apple caving to Iran governement - or China's - and restrict this feature to countries where it is legal.