Why America and Israel must write the rules of the cyber order- opinion
Henry Kissinger taught that order rests on power and legitimacy. In the cyber age, Washington and Jerusalem have both, and the responsibility to lead.
The world's new order is taking shape not in traditional treaties, but in data centers, undersea cables, chip factories, and the code that governs power grids, hospitals, and armies. The question now is who will establish the rules for this digital domain. In a previous piece, "Who writes the code of the new world?," I posited that software has become an integral component of civilization's strategic architecture.
In this article, my focus shifts to the crucial role that democracies must play in governing this architecture, with the United States and Israel uniquely positioned to lead.
Henry Kissinger's insights on power and legitimacy remain pertinent. In his latest works, he emphasizes that machines operating beyond human judgment could disrupt deterrence mechanisms. The essence of a stable system, he argues, hinges on a balance of power and a shared sense of legitimacy. Without these elements, chaos or coercion will take its place. In the realm of cyber warfare, this balance is gauged not only by conventional military measures but by the control of vital infrastructure by various entities.
The partnership between the United States and Israel is a prime example of a trusted alliance required for shaping this new order. America offers scale, excelling in advanced computing, chip design, AI, and space technologies, coupled with extensive global diplomatic ties. Israel, on the other hand, brings unparalleled defensive capabilities across all domains, from rocket attacks to cyber threats.
Their collaboration has proven highly effective, as evidenced by their joint efforts to counter Iranian nuclear ambitions and protect European airspace during a recent conflict. This alliance is not just bilateral; it has broader implications for global security.
Looking ahead, the opportunity lies in converting this US-Israeli cooperation into a more extensive architecture that involves European democracies and partners from the Abraham Accords. Three key steps can facilitate this transition: joint defense of critical infrastructure, establishing trusted supply chains, and crafting AI security guidelines.
Such a framework would ensure that democracies have both the capability and the legitimacy to set rules, countering the risks posed by authoritarian regimes and other emerging powers.
Europe, while leading in regulatory measures like data protection and AI policies, must also bolster its technological capabilities. Relying on foreign hardware, software, and defense systems leaves the continent vulnerable. A more integrated approach with the United States and Israel would enhance European sovereignty and resilience.
This is particularly crucial for smaller democracies in the Western Balkans, who often face significant vulnerabilities in their technological dependence. A US-Israel-led alliance that fosters knowledge sharing and local capacity building would not only enhance regional security but also earn the trust and respect of other nations.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
