Pegasus Scandal Unmasks the Dark Side of Morocco’s Royal Makhzen System
BY: Hana Saada
ALGIERS- In a shocking revelation that has sent shockwaves through international corridors of power, the Royal Makhzen system in Morocco stands accused of orchestrating a vast web of espionage, corruption, and political manipulation. The scandal, dubbed the “Maroc Gate” within the European Parliament, has unearthed the horrifying criminal face of this entrenched regime, shedding light on its nefarious activities both within and beyond the borders of the Kingdom.
At the heart of this scandal lies the perilous espionage tactics employed by the Makhzen regime, which have left an indelible mark on the global stage. The intricate web of intrigue involves accusations of the Makhzen’s involvement in the largest corruption case in the history of the European Parliament. Additionally, it has laid bare the regime’ sinister strategy of leveraging financial leverage and resorting to blackmail to garner support for its colonial policies in Western Sahara. These tactics are also used to quash dissent, suppress individual and collective freedoms, and perpetuate the monarchy’s rule.
The scandalous saga began with the revelation of a Makhzen scandal in Germany, adding another layer to the series of controversies surrounding Moroccan authorities. The European Parliament has recently confirmed the Kingdom of Morocco’s complicity in the illegal surveillance of officials in Spain and France, further deepening the crisis.
However, the most recent twist in this sordid tale revolves around the use of the notorious “Pegasus” spy program by Moroccan intelligence. A new report from a European Parliament committee has exposed the Makhzen’s involvement in espionage operations targeting both Moroccan and foreign media and political figures. The “Pega” Committee, established by the European Parliament to investigate the use of spy programs in Europe, has outlined Rabat’s role in eavesdropping on the phones of Spanish officials, including the Prime Minister, as well as the Ministers of Defense and Interior.
The scandal first came to light in July 2021 when a global investigation conducted by international media outlets revealed the Moroccan intelligence’s use of the “Pegasus” spy program, developed by the Zionist company NSO Group. Among the victims were Moroccan and international journalists, as well as foreign politicians, raising grave concerns about the reach and implications of such intrusive surveillance. In total, nearly one hundred thousand political and media figures fell prey to this invasive program.
The Makhzen regime’s espionage activities have not gone unnoticed, prompting a surge in judicial and human rights reactions in several countries. As the scandal continues to unravel, international scrutiny intensifies, and the Royal Makhzen system faces unprecedented pressure to answer for its actions. The shocking revelations have illuminated the dark underbelly of Moroccan politics, leaving many to question the true extent of the regime’s power and reach.
