Italy is under scrutiny to clarify its ties with Israeli spyware company Paragon after allegations surfaced that the government misused its technology to hack the phones of critics. Former Prime Minister Matteo Renzi emphasized that accountability is essential in addressing the "Paragon scandal."
Following reports that Paragon's spyware targeted Meta's WhatsApp chat users critical of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Italy refuted any involvement in illicit hacking incidents, asserting that Paragon's technology is intended for use on criminals.
Despite the government's denial, The Guardian and Haaretz reported Paragon's decision to sever ties with Italy amidst skepticism. Both Paragon and its owner, Florida investment group AE Industrial Partners, have not commented on these claims.
While Meloni's office reiterated its stance, opposition leaders, like Elly Schlein from the Democratic Party, demanded transparency, insisting that concealing the truth in the "Paragon affair" is unacceptable.
Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini initially suggested internal conflicts within intelligence services might explain the spyware misuse but later stated he lacked knowledge of the incident and referred to different spy agency news.