Last week, a U.S. federal jury delivered a historic verdict against Israeli spyware company NSO, ordering the firm to pay $168 million in punitive damages for hacking into the phones of over 1,400 WhatsApp users, including journalists, human rights activists, and dissidents from several countries.

This landmark decision marks a significant shift in the global landscape for the spyware industry, as well as for the Israeli defense industry specifically. For decades, a self-imposed bubble of immunity had existed around Israeli companies like NSO, leaving digital rights activists frustrated and concerned about the lack of accountability.

However, this decision is unlikely to be a game-changer in the fight against Israeli spyware. While it sets an important precedent for the industry as a whole, it may not have the desired impact on the broader context of espionage and surveillance.

The implications of this verdict are complex and far-reaching. For one, it highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability in the development and use of spyware technologies. It also underscores the importance of robust regulations and laws that prevent the misuse of such tools by governments and other entities.

In addition, this decision may serve as a wake-up call for the international community to take a closer look at the practices of companies like NSO. As the global landscape becomes increasingly interconnected, it is essential that we prioritize digital rights and human dignity over state interests and national security concerns.

The impact of this verdict will be felt in several ways. Firstly, it may lead to increased scrutiny of NSO's activities and those of other spyware companies. Secondly, it could result in greater cooperation between governments and international organizations to develop and enforce standards for the responsible use of spyware technologies. Finally, it may embolden digital rights activists and advocates to continue pushing for change and accountability in the face of growing surveillance states.

Ultimately, while this decision is a step in the right direction, it is just one part of a larger narrative that demands attention and action from governments, corporations, and individuals around the world. As we move forward, it is essential that we prioritize the protection of digital rights and human dignity over state interests and national security concerns.