Israel and the United States are partnering to establish a $200 million AI and quantum science center, aiming to strengthen regional ties and counter the growing technological influence of China, Iran, and Russia, according to a report by The Jerusalem Post.
The initiative, led by Maj. Gen. (res.) Tamir Hayman of Israel’s Institute for National Security Studies and Dr. Smadar Itzkovich of the AI & Quantum Sovereignty Lab, will feature dual headquarters in Tel Aviv and Arlington, Virginia. The two countries plan to contribute $20 million annually through 2030, with additional partnerships expected from Gulf nations including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and Kuwait.
“This is a strategic initiative that aims to reshape the Middle East through US-Israel scientific and technological collaboration in AI and quantum,” Itzkovich told The Times of Israel.
The center is designed to support joint research in areas critical to the region, including cybersecurity, medicine, genetics, and environmental challenges like water and food security. Organizers say it will also serve as a “ring of wisdom and science” to counterbalance what they describe as Iran’s destabilizing regional influence.
The announcement comes amid a surge of AI and quantum investments across the Middle East. In May, the UAE and U.S. unveiled plans for the world’s largest AI campus outside the United States, while Saudi Arabia is preparing a $40 billion AI investment fund.
Itzkovich emphasized that the center has geopolitical stakes, noting that “many of these advanced AI and quantum technologies are dual-use — defining future military, economic and intelligence powers.”
Israel’s robust private-sector AI ecosystem is home to 2,300 startups and nine quantum ventures. But the country lacks the large-scale infrastructure needed to match regional rivals. The science center seeks to fill that gap and bolster both national and allied capabilities.
According to The Jerusalem Post, the initiative could be enacted either through an executive order by U.S. President Donald Trump or via legislation, as part of a broader effort to extend the Abraham Accords and promote stability through shared innovation.
Need Help?
You might be wondering how the Israel’s AI policy, or any other government’s bill or regulations could impact you. Don’t hesitate to reach out to BABL AI. Their Audit Experts are ready to provide valuable assistance while answering your questions and concerns.
