An investigation by a consortium of media outlets has uncovered that the Moroccan government has been using the Pegasus spyware, developed by the Israeli company NSO Group, to monitor journalists, human rights activists, and political opponents. The spyware allows for the extraction of messages, photos, and emails, as well as the activation of microphones and cameras on targeted devices.
According to the investigation, which analyzed a leaked list of over 50,000 phone numbers, at least 600 Moroccan numbers were selected for surveillance, including those belonging to prominent journalists like Omar Radi and Hicham Mansouri, as well as activists and members of the opposition. The Moroccan government has denied any involvement in the use of Pegasus, calling the allegations 'false and unfounded.'
The revelations have sparked international concern, with human rights organizations calling for an independent investigation. The European Parliament has also raised questions about the export of surveillance technology to countries with poor human rights records. Morocco has previously been accused of using Pegasus to target foreign leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron.
As of July 2026, no official investigation has been launched in Morocco, and the government continues to deny the allegations. The case highlights ongoing tensions between state security measures and press freedom in the country.
