Story perspectives

Netanyahu Engages US Tech Leaders on AI Strategy

10/2/2025

Center

Netanyahu Engages Tech Leaders

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met United States (U.S.) tech executives in New York on September 29, 2025 to discuss artificial intelligence (AI) for Israel's economy and security.
Jacob Helberg, a former adviser at Palantir Technologies, attended.
Helberg has been nominated for under secretary of state for economic growth, energy, and the environment in the Trump administration and awaits Senate confirmation.

Left

Netanyahu Faces Backlash

Benjamin Netanyahu, Israeli Prime Minister, met Guillermo Rauch, Vercel CEO; the talk sparked backlash amid Gaza violence and cancellations.
Critics labeled Rauch a 'genocide supporter,' prompting migration to Netlify and Cloudflare.
Netanyahu highlighted social media as a tool, citing TikTok and X (formerly Twitter).
Reports allege Israel's $6 million deal with Brad Parscale to craft pro-Israel content for AI systems.

History

Historical Context

The U.S. National Defense Authorization Act of 2018 marked a pivotal shift in national security, prioritizing artificial intelligence and fostering partnerships with tech firms like Palantir Technologies. In Israel, Prime Minister Netanyahu's recent talks with tech leaders, including Jacob Helberg, aim to integrate AI into the economy and security, reflecting ongoing regional tensions and the complex relationship between technology and geopolitics.

1 of 3

Netanyahu Engages Tech Leaders

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met United States (U.S.) tech executives in New York on September 29, 2025 to discuss artificial intelligence (AI) for Israel's economy and security.
Jacob Helberg, a former adviser at Palantir Technologies, attended.
Helberg has been nominated for under secretary of state for economic growth, energy, and the environment in the Trump administration and awaits Senate confirmation.

1 / 3