Nvidia's US$163 Billion CEO Firmly Refuses to Leave Israel

Geopolitical tensions heating up in the Middle East are raising concerns about the continuity of business in the region. The war was initiated by the United States (US) and Israel against Iran. The conflict then spread to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and other parts of the Middle East. Amid the chaos, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang assured that his company will remain in Israel. Huang is one of the biggest beneficiaries of the AI boom, with his net worth recorded at US$163.3 billion (Rp2,700 trillion) according to Forbes. The AI industry has been rapidly expanding into Arab countries in recent years. For instance, the US and UAE have formed a strategic partnership with billions of dollars in investments to boost AI adoption. At the recent GTC conference, Huang stated that his company has 6,000 employees and their families in Israel. He said the company will look after them and ensure operations remain very stable in the region. He also delivered a personal message to employees in Israel. CNA reports that he called for support for them. “We have thousands of families in Israel. I am very worried about all of you. Take good care of yourselves. We are behind you, supporting you, and hope to meet you,” Huang said, quoted from the Times of India on Monday (13/4/2026). Nvidia, he also emphasised, will remain present in Israel in the long term amid geopolitical issues. Previously, Huang made similar statements at CES 2026. At that time, he spoke about the close relationship between Nvidia and Israel. Huang also revealed plans for a visit to Israel. Initially, he targeted going there in April next month. However, it is not yet known whether that plan will proceed, given the ongoing war in the Middle East. At the same time, Huang praised the employees at the Israel office. They were described as extraordinary and having dedication to each other and the country. Additionally, the 63-year-old explained some chips developed in Israel, including BlueField-4. Nvidia positions Israel as the main hub for its hardware innovation pipeline. Nvidia’s relationship with Israel appears to be growing even closer. One example is the investment through the construction of a new campus in Kiryat Tivon, which is estimated to employ up to 10,000 workers.