Israel to train young 'cyberwarriors'

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JERUSALEM, Jan. 2 (UPI) -- Israel says it has started a program to teach teenagers to be "interceptors" of cyberattacks by teaching them cyberwarfare techniques.

Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu, speaking at the Ashkelon Academic College, said the 3-year program, known as "Magshimim Le'umit," is aimed at outstanding pupils aged 16-18, the Jerusalem Post reported Tuesday.

"Israel's vital systems are under attack from Iran and other elements. This will only increase as we enter the digital age," Netanyahu said, promising to create a "digital Iron Dome."

That was a reference to Israel's so-called Iron Dome anti-missile defense system, widely considered the most effective defensive missile system in the world.

"To the outstanding pupils that are studying in the special program," Netanyahu added, "I say: 'You are the future interceptors for the State of Israel.'"

He made the remarks at the opening ceremony of the program at the Ashkelon school.