Where Is Israel Really Heading?
“Israel is the second cyber superpower in the world. And now we’re going to do the same with artificial intelligence.”
“Within the next decade, I want Israel to build its own aircraft. We never know whether the critical platforms we currently receive from abroad could one day be denied to us.”
These were two of the most notable messages delivered by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as he outlined his vision for the next decade. At first glance, they seem to be about AI and fighter aircraft. Strategically, however, Netanyahu is pursuing a much larger objective.
Israel still relies heavily on U.S. support, particularly in defense. But allies can change with elections, shifting national interests, or geopolitical circumstances. That is why Israel is seeking to reduce its dependence by investing in long-term sources of national power: artificial intelligence and a stronger domestic defense industry.
If this vision becomes reality, Israel would emerge as a nation that is technologically, economically, and militarily self-reliant. Such a transformation would give it far greater freedom to pursue its strategic objectives without being constrained by the decisions of other major powers, especially the United States.
Over the long term, that could elevate Israel from being a major military power to becoming a center of influence capable of shaping the balance of power across the Middle East.
History suggests that regional powers with enduring economic, technological, and military strength tend to expand their influence beyond their own regions. Perhaps this is not merely a ten-year development plan. It may be the foundation for Israel to move toward a higher position in the international order.
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