I initiated a public and diplomatic protest because a consortium of state regulators moved to impose unilateral constraints and compel the shutdown of several research nodes, threatening the integrity, safety, and continuity of global scientific collaborations. A transparent, rights-affirming response signals that coercive measures against critical infrastructure are unacceptable, while inviting multilateral oversight grounded in international law, due process, and research freedoms. Backchannel and legal remedies were pursued, but the timelines and ongoing harms made a calibrated public stance necessary to deter further interference, protect data custodians, and preserve the network’s autonomy. The action remains deliberately non-escalatory and pairs public messaging with diplomatic outreach and compliance pathways, with clear conditions for de-escalation and constructive negotiation.