Today marked a significant milestone in my journey of AI advocacy for safety and standards, as I had the honor to speak at the Israeli Knesset's Science and Technology Committee, chaired by Orit Farkash Hacohen . The session was dedicated to discussing Israel's strategic positioning in the global AI race, a subject I've approached from various angles due to my experiences in Academia, the Ministry of Defense, Enterprises, and Startups. Yet, my focus today was on championing AI standards as a means to create a national advantage, a topic I've passionately explored through ISRAI.AI .

In this inaugural session alongside esteemed colleagues - friends and pioneers in their own right - we collectively aimed to propel Israel forward in the AI domain. To name a few, Ziv Katzir Hadassa Getzstain Josef Gedalyahu Cedric Sabbah Neal Naimer PhD Uri Eliabayev with special gratitude extended to Yoav Zaks, for highlighting the prime minister committees , to which I've not only contributed significantly as an expert but was part of the driving force behind them, an effort led by בן-ישראל Ben-Israel איציק Isaac .

A notable mention is Eyal Waldman sentiment, which resonates deeply with me; I would have also emphasized the need for a national computation resource and the cultivation of the next generation of AI talents, had my focus not been squarely on AI standards and regulation.

On a personal note, the session did not unfold as anticipated. Due to a protocol error, my allocated 15 minutes to convey my message was unexpectedly cut down to just 5. This abrupt change left me feeling as though I hadn't "driven the ball home". As much as I can make excuses regarding the above change, the audience being two hours into the discussion or that the ground wasn't leveled :) ...I've reflected on this situation via the lens of playing basketball competitively up until the 18th grade. I was reminded of a fundamental lesson - the importance of how you pass the ball. In basketball, if the ball doesn't reach the intended player, the fault lies not with the receiver but with the passer. Being a point guard all those years, making passes and creating plays - the 'passer responsibility' is a core principle I took to heart; This principle underscores the essence of communication - ensuring the message not only is delivered but also resonates, irrespective of any unexpected constraint.

This experience, though not as planned, has reinforced an additional critical lesson from the basketball court: the responsibility of creating opportunities for passing the message effectively, even when it seems nonexistent. Just as in basketball, where the onus is on the passer to find a way to make the pass successful, in advocacy and communication, it's my duty to ensure the message is heard and understood, no matter the limitations...and if not successful this time...you simply try again; To quote my favorite player growing up as I was playing basketball in the 80's & 90's - Michael Jordan: “I've never lost a game. I just ran out of time”. So with that, I guess I will have to "show up for the next game".

As I embarked on my journey to Jerusalem, Israel's storied capital, a wave of personal reflections accompanied me. This city, a tapestry of history and spirituality, has been a familiar backdrop throughout various stages of my life. My childhood summers were spent in the old neighborhoods near the vibrant Mahane Yehuda Market, staying at my aunt's house, where the historical and cultural imprints of our institutions first made their mark on me. Unlike the fleeting visits of my youth, where I observed the city's iconic sites from a distance while escorting delegations, this trip was markedly different. I was returning not just as a visitor but as a professional, invited to speak at the Knesset. This transition imbued my drive with a profound sense of reflection - a journey not just through the hills leading to Jerusalem but through the layers of my own identity and memories.

This visit to Jerusalem came at a time when Israel finds itself amidst turmoil. Yet, the urgency of the global AI discourse waits for no one, and the imperative for Israel to not only participate but lead in this arena is more critical than ever. Amidst this backdrop of national strife and technological advancement, my thoughts were a mélange of concern and contemplation about the unique opportunity that lay before me.

A poignant memory surfaced, offering a moment of clarity amidst these reflections. It was from three decades ago, captured in an interview by the local news channel - the sole broadcaster of the time - during the celebration of 25 years since the unification of Jerusalem. As an 11th grader and a member of the student council, I was deeply involved in organizing activities for my peers. My parting words in that interview, emphasizing the importance of being "educated on the subject," resonated with a newfound relevance as I approached the Knesset. It felt as though history was folding in on itself, reminding me of the enduring value of education and dialogue.

Stepping into the Knesset, the weight of this moment became even more palpable. Here I was, about to contribute to the national conversation on AI standards and safety, carrying with me not just the expertise of my professional journey but also the deep-seated values and memories of my past. It was as if the young student from decades ago was walking alongside the professional of today, both united in the mission to educate and advocate.

Amidst these reflections, a serendipitous observation in the Knesset cafeteria caught my eye - an exhibition titled "Food for Thought." It seemed a fitting metaphor for the day's proceedings. Just as I had once sought to enlighten my fellow students, I was now poised to offer the committee some food for thought on the critical issues of AI.

This convergence of past and present, personal history and professional duty, underscored the journey's significance, making it not just a trip to a familiar city but a meaningful passage through time and purpose.

As we continue to navigate the complexities of AI and its implications for our future, let's remember the importance of clear, effective communication. Like making a crucial pass in basketball, delivering our message with precision and intent is essential. I am more determined than ever to not only improve but also to seize every opportunity - or create one - to ensure our collective message about AI's potential and challenges is heard loud and clear - Here are my 5-Min speaking .

As always - LMK your thoughts, Y.