Italian government denies role in spyware targeting critics

The Italian government is under increasing pressure to explain its links to Israeli spyware firm Paragon, following reports that the company severed ties with Rome over allegations of misuse. The controversy erupted after WhatsApp revealed that Paragon spyware had been used to target multiple users, including a journalist and a human rights activist critical of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.

While the government has confirmed that seven people in Italy were affected, it denies any involvement in the hacking and has called for an investigation. However, reports from The Guardian and Haaretz claim Paragon cut ties with Italy due to doubts over the government’s denial. Opposition politicians have demanded clarity, with former Prime Minister Matteo Renzi insisting that those responsible be held accountable.

Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini initially suggested that internal disputes within the intelligence services might be behind the scandal, though he later retracted his comment, claiming he was referring to unrelated cases. Meanwhile, critics argue that the government cannot ignore the growing concerns over the potential misuse of surveillance tools against political opponents.

With mounting calls for transparency, the affair has intensified debate over government accountability and digital surveillance, raising broader questions about the ethical use of spyware within democratic nations.