Alleged Mossad espionage scandal targets Italian PM, top officials

Israeli intelligence agency Mossad is reportedly involved in an espionage scandal that targets high-ranking Italian officials, including Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Investigators have uncovered a conspiracy linked to a private investigation firm in Milan.

Key points of alleged Mossad espionage scandal

• Espionage allegations: Mossad is accused of working with a Milan-based private investigation firm composed of current and former members of security services. They allegedly stole personal information about Italian politicians and public figures to use for extortion.
• Arrests and investigations: At least four individuals have been arrested, with dozens more under investigation. Cybersecurity experts and hackers are suspected of compromising the servers of Italy’s Interior Ministry.
• High-level conspiracy: Italian media describe this case as a “conspiracy of the highest level,” involving mafia members, intelligence officials, and Mossad.

• Political reactions: Meloni called the situation “unacceptable” and a “threat to democracy.” Defence Minister Guido Crosetto has called for an urgent parliamentary inquiry, expressing concerns about possible breaches of state secrets.
• Main suspect: A former senior police officer, who leads Equalize, a private business intelligence firm, is the primary suspect. He is accused of infiltrating government ministry and police servers from 2019 to 2024 to collect sensitive information for sale.

• Suspicious visitors: Investigators intercepted a visit by two unidentified Israelis, described as intelligence agents, to the private investigation firm. They were reportedly seeking information related to Iranian gas, potentially of interest to Italy’s government gas company, ENI.

This ongoing investigation raises significant concerns about the integrity of Italy’s political landscape and the potential implications of foreign intelligence operations within its borders.