JERUSALEM (VINnews) — Israel’s government approved a decision Sunday to accelerate the construction of AI server farms and data centers, a move Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described as a “major breakthrough” essential for the country’s military strength, global influence and future security.

Netanyahu, speaking at the weekly cabinet meeting, emphasized that leadership in artificial intelligence — and potentially quantum computing — will determine national power in the coming era.

“There is great news here and a major move: A major move because, ultimately, leadership in Artificial Intelligence (AI), and in my opinion, in quantum as well, will be a decisive factor in the continued cultivation of our power,” Netanyahu said. “This is a small country; it needs to possess immense power. This applies both militarily and in the ability to project power.”

He noted Israel’s small size in population and territory but highlighted its “huge” spirit and action, adding that the initiative forms part of a broader vision. Netanyahu thanked Energy and Infrastructure Minister Eli Cohen and other ministers for advancing the plan. He indicated a separate discussion on a new security concept would follow soon.

Energy and Infrastructure Minister Eli Cohen presented the decision as a key step toward positioning Israel as a global AI superpower. He said it removes regulatory barriers and speeds up planning and construction for data centers.

“Today, we are introducing a decision that will remove barriers and accelerate the processes for building data centers, which is a vital step on Israel’s path to becoming a global AI superpower,” Cohen said.

He pointed to Israel’s advantages: strong human capital, hundreds of international companies, strategic location at international communications crossroads and competitive energy prices.

“In the last three months alone, planning and establishment procedures have begun for data centers with a capacity of 1 Giga,” Cohen noted. “Just to give some perspective, this represents more than 5% of the State of Israel’s energy consumption initiated in just the last three months, and there is more to come.”

The minister projected that the centers will generate thousands of jobs and bring billions of dollars into state coffers. He pledged government assistance for rapid establishment.

Cohen also announced plans to expand energy infrastructure, doubling the number of power plants under construction by the end of the decade to include both gas-based and renewable sources.

The decision aligns with Israel’s efforts to leverage its tech ecosystem amid rising global demand for AI infrastructure, while addressing energy needs and regulatory hurdles.