Jerusalem, Sep 22 (IANS) Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Sunday announced the establishment of a new organisation that would spearhead the country's cyber defence operations.

The decision was made pursuant to "a comprehensive staff work", which indicated the need for a designated body to link the civilian with security spheres and lead Israel's overall defensive activity while taking a long-term view of the increasing cyber threats, Xinhua quoted a statement from prime minister's office as saying.

The National Operative Cyber Defense Authority will be granted authorities to defend the civilian sphere from cyber threats, and will function alongside the Israel National Cyber Bureau (INCB), an agency formed three years ago to maintain Israel's status as a global powerhouse of cyber technology.

At the start of the extended Cabinet's weekly meeting Sunday, Netanyahu, who has made cyber security one of Israel's top priorities in recent years, said the new agency's role would not be limited to defending "important facilities and security agencies" against cyber attacks, but also Israeli citizens.

"We are in a new world and are preparing with new forces," Netanyahu said. "This has major significance for Israel's defence in the future."