The National Cyber Defense Bill passed its first reading in the Knesset on Monday amid the rising intensity of cyberattacks during the ongoing war against Iran.
Following more than a decade of efforts to advance the legislation, the bill, which is designed to establish a unified and binding framework for cyber defense within essential organizations for the first time in Israel, passed with zero opposing votes.
The law is aimed, among other things, at addressing the current reality in which various organizations operate under differing levels of security in the absence of a unified national standard by establishing mandatory cyber requirements based on accepted international concepts and benchmarks.
First, it establishes a mandatory defense threshold and risk management framework, defining the defense requirements and professional standards that ensure the operational continuity of essential organizations and digital service providers.
Second, there is the mandatory reporting of significant cyberattacks, as well as the ability to issue directives to mitigate severe cyber incidents.
Third, involves a professional guidance and oversight mechanism. Essential organizations will be supervised by units within government ministries, each according to its area of responsibility, all under the professional guidance of the National Cyber Directorate.
“This is a historic milestone for cyber defense in Israel. It is time for Israel to join the advanced nations that implemented similar laws about a decade ago,” The Head of the National Cyber Directorate, Yossi Karadi, said.
“The cyber threat is evolving at a rapid pace, and the State of Israel must ensure that the level of defense for essential services provided to its citizens is unified, professional, and based on advanced standards. This law will strengthen Israel’s capability to confront the cyber threats of today and tomorrow. This is a significant step toward bolstering national resilience and safeguarding the security of Israeli citizens.”
The proposal is now set to be transferred to the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee to prepare it for its second and third readings.
