JERUSALEM, Israel – Israel’s President Isaac Herzog on Monday announced that he will award U.S. President Donald Trump the country’s highest civilian honor for his efforts in brokering the release of hostages from Gaza and advancing a peace deal to end the long-running war with Hamas.
In a statement from his office, Herzog said Trump’s mediation had been “instrumental” in securing the freedom of Israeli captives and paving the way for a broader peace plan aimed at stabilizing the Middle East.
“Through his tireless efforts, President Trump has not only helped bring our loved ones home but has also laid the foundations for a new era in the Middle East built on security, cooperation, and genuine hope for a peaceful future,” Herzog said.
The Israeli Presidential Medal of Honor — the country’s top civilian award — will be formally presented to Trump “in the coming months,” according to the president’s office.
Herzog said he intends to personally inform Trump of the decision when the U.S. leader visits Israel on Monday.
Trump is expected to meet with families of released hostages and address Israel’s parliament during his brief visit.
The visit coincides with the launch of the first phase of Trump’s proposed 20-point peace plan between Israel and Hamas, which includes a large-scale hostage-prisoner exchange and a roadmap for ending more than two years of hostilities.
The war began after Hamas’ unprecedented October 7, 2023, attack on Israeli territory that killed hundreds and triggered a devastating Israeli military response in Gaza.
Israel’s Presidential Medal of Honor is awarded to individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the state of Israel or to humanity.
Previous recipients include former U.S. President Barack Obama, who received the honor in 2013.
