The New Yorker investigation detailing the scheme used to spy on me was widely covered by French and international press.
It landed like a bombshell: the New Yorker investigation detailing the scheme used to spy on me was widely picked up by the French and international press. A well-documented file exposing the unsavory methods of a state that placed me, and my family, under surveillance.
That surveillance took the form of several break-ins, tails, and the interception of my personal correspondence, as detailed in the article by Le Monde.
These revelations affected me deeply, that much is obvious. It was a difficult time on a personal level, as these violent methods took a toll on our family's stability and on my everyday state of mind. But beyond the emotional, personal side of this affair lies a political dimension we cannot ignore: how is it possible, and by what right, for a foreign state to fund a company in order to intimidate a French citizen on French soil? The intent was clear: to reach my client by smearing me, by trying every means available to discredit me.
This well-known, long-standing rivalry between two states is, in the end, fairly commonplace. What is far less ordinary is the way it played out: a state resorting to thuggish methods to harm another, by whatever means necessary.
These practices are shameful and unworthy, which is why I have instructed my lawyers to examine every possible course of action, so that justice can be done. No one, anywhere, will silence me. For ten years I have practiced my profession with passion, in good conscience and with integrity, and I ask for nothing more than respect, for myself and for my family.
I therefore reaffirm my determination to see this case through to the end, on behalf of my loved ones and in the name of our freedom to do business without risking becoming the target of criminals. I trust in the justice system of my country; it will take as long as it takes, and I am patient.
I have grown used to being challenged, disliked, slandered; but going after my family, violating my privacy, I will never accept!
Sihem Souid