www.lemonde.fr New Revelations in Pegasus Spyware Scandal Involve France and Morocco
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- •France contemplated purchasing Pegasus spyware while its officials were targeted.
- •Morocco has allegedly used Pegasus to monitor journalists and political figures since 2017.
- •Evidence from ANSSI links the spyware to operations attributed to Moroccan interests.
A recent investigation by Forbidden Stories has revealed that France considered acquiring the Pegasus spyware from NSO Group while several French ministers, including Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu, were targeted. The inquiry indicates that Morocco has systematically used Pegasus to surveil journalists, political opponents, and French officials since at least 2017. The investigation suggests that Lecornu was targeted in 2019, with Emmanuel Macron also listed among potential targets. Despite the evidence, Morocco continues to deny using the spyware. The revelations coincide with Lecornu's official visit to Morocco, raising questions about the transparency of Franco-Moroccan relations. The investigation is based on technical analyses by France's cybersecurity agency, ANSSI, and testimonies from former Moroccan intelligence officials. The situation highlights significant concerns regarding state surveillance and diplomatic relations between France and Morocco.
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