Lead
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu launched Israel's National AI Program on Sunday, describing artificial intelligence as a transformative force akin to the Industrial Revolution. The program, developed over several months, was unveiled in a joint ceremony with Brig.-Gen. (res.) Erez Eskel, Head of the National AI Directorate.
"AI is not just another technology; it is going to change the world," Netanyahu said. "It is going to change the lives of each and every one of us, of our children, and of generations to come. Quite a change is taking place, much like the Industrial Revolution."
Netanyahu warned that those unable to keep pace with developing technologies would be "left behind." He outlined two primary goals for the program: ensuring Israel becomes a "global superpower" in AI and promoting the nation's economic success.
Coverage Comparison
Jerusalem Post covered the launch extensively, providing multiple perspectives on the initiative. One report focused on the government's strategic priorities, highlighting quantum computing and physical AI as key areas of development. Another article emphasized Netanyahu's remarks, framing the program as a bold step to secure Israel's place at the forefront of global AI.
The coverage consistently reflected a promotional tone, quoting official statements and stressing the transformative potential of the program. While the framing varied—from technical details to broader geopolitical ambitions—both reports underscored the government's commitment to leveraging AI for national advantage.
Key Claims
According to the Prime Minister's Office National AI Directorate and the Finance Ministry Accountant General's Department, Israel will focus its development efforts on quantum computing and physical artificial intelligence, aiming to become a leading nation in both fields. The initiative includes developing a "locally produced quantum computer" under the newly released "Project Nexus," alongside investments in physical AI solutions for real-world applications.
Government Decision 4255, which underpins the national AI strategy, aims to secure Israel's place at the forefront of global AI. The decision is the inaugural project of the National AI Directorate, which was established to accelerate AI advancement in the country.
A Request for Information (RFI) will be published to advance Israeli sovereignty in foundational models, promote local leadership, map market capabilities, and examine measures to maximize the state's comparative advantages. This move is part of broader efforts to build sovereign infrastructure and ensure long-term global leadership.
Senior Finance Ministry Deputy Accountant General for Innovation and Technology Evyatar Peretz emphasized the collaborative nature of the initiative, stating, "The close collaboration between the Accountant General's Department and the National Directorate enables us to translate government decisions into practical, contractual mechanisms that will establish the required infrastructure on the ground."
Eskel described the program as a first step forward, noting that it "takes into account the distinct advantages of the State of Israel in the fields of cyber, physical AI, and solving life's problems with AI, while providing infrastructure for the needs of the country and the economy."
Netanyahu also drew parallels to past Israeli achievements, saying, "Not only did we do this in cyber, but we also did it in agriculture, medicine, medical devices, and many other fields that you know, and we will do it here too, in artificial intelligence."