Lior Handelsman on Israel’s Expanding Role in the Global AI and Semiconductor Ecosystem

Israel’s inclusion in the U.S.-led Pax Silica framework signals a strategic shift in how the country is positioned within the global AI and semiconductor supply chain.

In a recent interview, Lior Handelsman shared his perspective on why the agreement matters now and what it could unlock for Israel’s technology ecosystem.

What Is Pax Silica?

Pax Silica is a U.S.-led international framework designed to strengthen and secure the global supply chain for artificial intelligence and advanced semiconductors. The initiative brings together a small group of partner countries to reduce supply chain concentration risks and enable trusted access to critical AI and silicon technologies.

Why Israel’s Inclusion Is Strategically Important

According to Handelsman, Israel’s participation goes beyond diplomatic alignment. Being part of the framework helps safeguard Israel’s access to advanced chips, manufacturing capabilities, and technical knowledge at a time when global controls on AI hardware are becoming more restrictive.

The agreement also creates new opportunities for international collaboration, positioning Israeli companies to work more closely with global technology leaders and supply-chain partners, while supporting increased capital flows into the local ecosystem.

Cybersecurity and Chip Design as Key Differentiators

Handelsman highlighted cybersecurity as a core reason Israel was included, noting that securing AI supply chains requires protecting data, intellectual property, and operational infrastructure, areas where Israel has proven global strength.

In parallel, Israel remains a major hub for advanced chip design, with leading global technology companies operating significant R&D and design centers locally. This combination of security expertise and semiconductor talent positions Israel as a meaningful contributor to next-generation AI systems.

Looking Ahead: Infrastructure and Data Opportunities

Beyond AI applications and chip design, the framework may also open longer-term opportunities in data infrastructure, including advanced data centers and supporting technologies. As energy and capacity constraints reshape where large-scale compute infrastructure can be built, Israeli startups may play a growing role in areas such as energy efficiency, cooling, and infrastructure optimization.

Strengthening Israel’s Position in the Global AI Era

Israel’s inclusion in Pax Silica reinforces its role as a trusted partner in the evolving global AI ecosystem. By combining cybersecurity leadership, semiconductor expertise, and international collaboration, the agreement supports sustained innovation across Israel’s technology sector.

Read the original interview with Lior Handelsman:
https://www.ynetnews.com/tech-and-digital/article/bkz11h98q11e#autoplay