US and Israel sign AI innovation memorandum of understanding

US and Israel sign AI innovation memorandum of understanding

In a significant move to bolster technological collaboration, the United States and Israel have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) focused on advancing artificial intelligence (AI) and energy innovation. The agreement, signed at Blair House in Washington, D.C., on July 8, 2025, was attended by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, US Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum, and US Secretary of Energy Chris Wright, among other dignitaries [3].

The MOU aims to leverage the strengths of both nations in AI and energy sectors. It will focus on applying AI to strengthen energy grids, encourage research, innovation, and the development of joint policies. The agreement also includes plans to advance regional projects such as IMEC and the Abraham Accords, and establish a working group to set standards and optimal practices for AI integration into energy economies. The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure in Israel and the US Department of Energy are among the parties involved [3].

Prime Minister Netanyahu underscored the importance of innovation, stating, "The future belongs to those who innovate. America and Israel are the prime innovation nations on the planet. AI is the thrust of innovation now and will create unimaginable things in the future." He also expressed gratitude for the unmatched cooperation and friendship between the two countries [3].

This agreement comes amidst a growing global focus on AI and its applications. In Israel, tech giant Nvidia is planning a significant expansion, including the construction of a new campus in Yokneam, northern Israel. This campus, which will span up to 30 acres, aims to triple the company's staff in the coming years. The expansion is part of Nvidia's broader strategy to strengthen its operations in Israel and enhance its AI capabilities [2].

Meanwhile, Decart, an Israeli startup specializing in AI, has announced a strategic collaboration with the Technion - Israel Institute of Technology. As part of this collaboration, Decart will support the Technion’s excellence program, which will now be renamed the Technion–Decart Excellence Program. Decart will provide funding amounting to millions of shekels to support the program’s activities in the coming years. This initiative aligns with Decart’s broader vision to advance AI in Israel [1].

These developments highlight the strong commitment of both the US and Israel to fostering innovation in AI and energy. The MOU is expected to drive further collaboration and investment in these critical sectors, positioning both nations as leaders in global technological advancements.

References:
[1] https://www.calcalistech.com/ctechnews/article/sjca2dfrll
[2] https://www.ynetnews.com/business/article/hjd1o9psxe
[3] https://baltimorejewishlife.com/news/news-detail.php?ARTICLE_ID=180060&SECTION_ID=1