My two cents: I get the impression this is related to NSO pegasus software. So once the Israeli firms leaks were made public Appple had to respond and has patched some security holes that were exposed publicly.

NSO used exploits in iMessage to enable them to grab photos, texts among other things.

Now shortly after Apple security patches we see them pivot and now want to “work” with law enforcement. Hmmm almost like once access was closed Apple needs a way to justify “opening” access to devices.

Yes I realize this could be a stretch based on the info. Just seems like an interesting coincidence… back door exposed and closed…. now it’s back open… almost like governments demand access