Spyware Developed by U.S.-Backed Israeli Firm Used to Hack European Journalists’ Phones
In a shocking revelation, it has been reported that spyware developed by a U.S.-backed Israeli firm was used to hack the phones of at least three prominent European journalists. This includes two editors from an Italian investigative news magazine, as well as a Brussels-based reporter working for a French television channel.
The spyware, known as Pegasus, was developed by the Israeli company NSO Group and is marketed as a tool for governments to track terrorists and criminals. However, it has been used by various governments to target journalists, activists, and human rights defenders.
The Italian journalists, who work for the magazine L’Espresso, were targeted in 2017 and 2018. Their phones were infected with Pegasus, which allowed the hackers to access their emails, text messages, and other sensitive information. The Brussels-based journalist, who works for the French channel France 24, was targeted in 2019.
This revelation has raised serious concerns about the safety and security of journalists, who play a crucial role in keeping the public informed and holding those in power accountable. It is a blatant violation of press freedom and an attack on the fundamental right to privacy.
The use of spyware to target journalists is not a new phenomenon. In recent years, there have been numerous cases of governments using such tools to spy on journalists and silence dissenting voices. However, the fact that a U.S.-backed company is involved in this unethical practice is particularly concerning.
The NSO Group has repeatedly claimed that its spyware is only sold to governments for legitimate purposes. However, the recent revelations have once again exposed the company’s false claims and raised questions about its accountability and responsibility.
The use of spyware to target journalists not only puts their personal safety at risk but also jeopardizes the confidentiality of their sources. This can have a chilling effect on investigative journalism and hinder the free flow of information.
The European Union has taken a strong stance against the use of spyware to target journalists and human rights defenders. In a statement, the EU’s foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, said, “The EU condemns the illegal surveillance of journalists, which threatens press freedom and the right to privacy. We call on all states to respect their obligations under international law and to refrain from targeting journalists and human rights defenders.”
The Italian government has also launched an investigation into the hacking of the journalists’ phones. The Italian Prime Minister, Mario Draghi, has called for an urgent meeting with the heads of intelligence agencies to discuss the issue.
The NSO Group has denied any involvement in the hacking of the journalists’ phones and has stated that it only sells its spyware to “vetted governments.” However, the company’s track record and the recent revelations raise serious doubts about its claims.
The use of spyware to target journalists is a direct attack on press freedom and democracy. It is a violation of human rights and must be condemned by the international community. The U.S. government, as a major backer of the NSO Group, must take responsibility and ensure that its companies are not involved in such unethical practices.
Journalists play a crucial role in society by bringing important issues to light and holding those in power accountable. They should not have to fear for their safety or have their privacy violated in the course of their work. It is the responsibility of governments to protect the freedom of the press and ensure the safety of journalists.
In conclusion, the use of spyware developed by a U.S.-backed Israeli firm to hack the phones of European journalists is a grave violation of press freedom and human rights. It is a wake-up call for governments to take action and hold those responsible accountable. The international community must stand in solidarity with journalists and defend their right to report without fear of surveillance or retaliation.
