Israel Launches Flagship National AI Initiatives

On August 4, 2026, the Israeli Prime Minister's Office and the National AI Directorate announced a major expansion of the national AI program. The initiative includes 'Project Nexus,' a tender to establish a sovereign 'Blue and White' quantum computing platform, and two Requests for Information (RFIs) focused on Physical AI infrastructure and foundational model development. These steps aim to transition Israel from policy planning to active implementation, ensuring the country maintains a competitive edge in global AI markets. By focusing on Physical AI—which integrates robotics, edge computing, and advanced sensing—the government seeks to leverage Israel's unique operational expertise. Furthermore, the RFI for foundational models signals a strategic shift toward building domestic AI capabilities to reduce reliance on foreign systems. Brig.-Gen. (Res.) Erez Eskel, head of the Directorate, emphasized that these projects are critical for securing Israel's position as a global AI superpower, providing the necessary infrastructure for both the private sector and national security needs. The move represents a significant commitment to long-term technological independence and economic growth through state-backed innovation.