New AI Directorate in Israel Sparks Cyber Hierarchy Worries

Published Date : 26/10/2025 

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's appointment of Brig.-Gen. (res.) Erez Askal to lead the new AI authority in the PMO has sparked concerns about overlapping powers and potential conflicts within Israel's cyber hierarchy. 

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has appointed Brig.-Gen. (res.) Erez Askal to lead the new AI authority within the Prime Minister's Office (PMO). This move has raised significant concerns about potential overlaps in powers and the possibility of conflicts within Israel's existing cyber hierarchy.

The establishment of this new AI directorate is a significant step in Israel's strategic approach to artificial intelligence. The country has long been a leader in cyber technology and innovation, and the new directorate is expected to bolster Israel's position in the global AI landscape. However, the appointment of Brig.-Gen. (res.) Askal has not been without its critics.

One of the primary concerns is the potential for overlapping responsibilities between the new AI directorate and existing cyber agencies. Israel's cyber infrastructure is already well-developed, with multiple agencies and departments handling various aspects of cybersecurity and technology. The National Cyber Directorate (NCD), for example, is responsible for national cybersecurity policy and coordination. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) also has its own cyber units, focusing on military and defense-related cyber operations.

The creation of a new AI directorate within the PMO could lead to redundancies and inefficiencies. Some experts argue that the new authority might duplicate the efforts of existing agencies, potentially causing confusion and reducing the effectiveness of Israel's overall cyber strategy. There is also the risk of turf wars and power struggles between the new directorate and established agencies.

Brig.-Gen. (res.) Erez Askal, a seasoned military and technology professional, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. His background in the IDF and his expertise in technology make him a strong candidate to lead the AI directorate. However, his appointment has not been universally welcomed. Some within the tech and security communities have raised concerns about the concentration of power and the potential for a lack of checks and balances.

Netanyahu's decision to place the new AI directorate under the PMO has also been scrutinized. The PMO is a powerful entity within the Israeli government, and the move could be seen as an attempt to centralize control over critical technology and security matters. Critics argue that placing such a significant responsibility under the PMO might undermine the independence and effectiveness of existing cyber agencies.

Despite these concerns, the potential benefits of the new AI directorate cannot be ignored. Israel's AI sector is rapidly growing, and the country is home to numerous startups and tech companies specializing in AI and machine learning. The new directorate could provide a centralized platform for coordinating AI research and development, fostering innovation, and ensuring that Israel remains at the forefront of AI technology.

Moreover, the new directorate could play a crucial role in addressing the ethical and legal implications of AI. As AI technology advances, it is essential to ensure that its development and deployment are guided by ethical principles and legal frameworks. The directorate could work closely with other government agencies, industry stakeholders, and international partners to develop and implement robust AI policies.

In conclusion, while the establishment of the new AI directorate under the PMO is a significant step forward, it is crucial to address the concerns about overlapping responsibilities and potential conflicts. Clear guidelines and effective coordination mechanisms will be essential to ensure that the new directorate complements, rather than competes with, existing cyber agencies. With the right approach, Israel can leverage its new AI directorate to strengthen its position as a global leader in technology and innovation. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS): 

Q: What is the role of the new AI directorate in Israel?

A: The new AI directorate, led by Brig.-Gen. (res.) Erez Askal, is responsible for coordinating AI research and development, fostering innovation, and ensuring that Israel remains at the forefront of AI technology.

Q: Why is there concern about the new AI directorate?

A: There are concerns about potential overlaps in responsibilities and the possibility of conflicts with existing cyber agencies, as well as the concentration of power under the PMO.

Q: Who is Brig.-Gen. (res.) Erez Askal?

A: Brig.-Gen. (res.) Erez Askal is a seasoned military and technology professional with extensive experience in the IDF and expertise in technology. He has been appointed to lead the new AI directorate in the PMO.

Q: How might the new AI directorate impact Israel's cyber infrastructure?

A: The new directorate could potentially lead to redundancies and inefficiencies if it duplicates the efforts of existing agencies, but it could also provide a centralized platform for coordinating AI research and development.

Q: What are the potential benefits of the new AI directorate?

A: The potential benefits include fostering innovation, ensuring ethical and legal compliance in AI development, and strengthening Israel's position as a global leader in technology and innovation. 

More Related Topics :