Israel engages spyware companies for tracking hostages in Gaza: report

As militants in the Gaza Strip continue to hold over 200 people hostage, Israel has engaged spyware companies including the controversial Pegasus software's manufacturer, to aid in tracking them in Gaza, NDTV report said quoting sources familiar with the matter.

It further said that NSO Group and Candiru are working to enhance their spyware capabilities as asked by Israel despite them being blacklisted by the United States.

Both companies along with several other software firms, according to the information provided, are offering their services at no cost.

However, the Defense Ministry and Israel Defense Forces did not immediately respond to requests for comment, while NSO declined to comment, the outlet added.