U.S. President Donald Trump will be awarded Israel’s highest civilian honor in 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced. Breaking with long-standing tradition, this will be the first time the honor is conferred on a foreign national.
Speaking to reporters after a courtesy meeting with Trump in Florida on Monday, Netanyahu said the decision reflects the Israeli people’s “profound sense of gratitude” for the U.S. president’s longstanding support for Israel.
“President Trump has broken many conventions—initially surprising people, but later they realized that perhaps he was right,” Netanyahu said. “We, too, have decided to break a tradition—or create a new one—by awarding Israel’s highest honor to President Trump.”
Netanyahu has previously described Trump as “Israel’s greatest friend of all time.” Referring to the award, he said it represents a widely shared public sentiment in Israel, noting that the people hold Trump’s contributions in high regard.
Israel’s highest civilian honor is traditionally reserved for Israeli citizens or permanent residents. However, under a special category recognizing exceptional contributions to the Jewish people, foreign nationals may also be eligible. Previously, the honor was awarded in 1991 to renowned Indian conductor Zubin Mehta.
Reacting to the announcement, Trump expressed appreciation, saying, “It’s truly amazing and a great honor.” He also hinted that he may visit Israel for the official award ceremony.
Analysts say the recognition could further bolster Trump’s Middle East diplomatic profile. Trump has frequently portrayed himself as a key architect of regional peace, claiming at various times that he has “stopped eight wars” and possesses unique capabilities in resolving global conflicts.
Trump has long expressed interest in winning the Nobel Peace Prize, though he did not receive the award in 2025. Recently, however, he was presented with the FIFA Peace Prize, which supporters view as international recognition of his diplomatic achievements.
Source: Al Arabiya, The Times of Israel.