Proposal: OP_STARK_VERIFY - Native STARK Proof Verification in Bitcoin Script

Starkware possesses the necessary resources and reputation to potentially emulate OP_STARK_VERIFY along with other opcodes critical for secure bridging to side systems. The proposed method involves cosigning transparent scripts embedded within an OP_FALSE OP_IF <.> OP_ELSE OP_ENDIF structure. This approach is suggested as a means for Starkware to offer a public service that allows for experimentation prior to a soft fork. The argument for a soft fork could be strengthened by the existence of a live, transparent system already handling significant financial transactions.

An interesting technical suggestion made is the replacement of OP_FALSE with OP_FALSE OP_NOPX. This modification implies that during a soft fork, the OP_NOPX could act to change OP_FALSE to OP_TRUE without requiring explicit permission from the committee responsible for cosigning the emulation. This technique suggests a seamless transition mechanism for the soft fork, potentially simplifying the implementation process and reducing reliance on external approvals.