Macron Seeks Answers from Israel on Pegasus Spyware Allegations Against Morocco

During a telephone conversation between the two men, Emmanuel Macron asked Naftali Bennett for explanations about the Israeli Pegasus software. He says he is "concerned that Morocco would be among the countries that have used the powerful spyware," reports Israeli television Channel 12. The Israeli Prime Minister would have replied that the events occurred before his taking office in May last year and that the required conclusions on the matter would be reached.

France’s wish is to know if Israel has indeed opened an investigation into NSO Group, specialized in spyware software, and that in the event of irregularities in the sale of Pegasus, it would take legal action against the Israeli company, reports the Israeli newspaper Yediot Ahronot. Naftali Bennett’s office has not yet confirmed this telephone conversation.

On Thursday, Emmanuel Macron convened an exceptional defense council dedicated to the Pegasus affair and the issue of cybersecurity. According to the Elysée, the French president "demanded the strengthening of all security protocols in parallel with the ongoing technical detection and clarification operations."