Israel’s President Isaac Herzog has announced plans to present the country’s highest civilian honour to United States President Donald Trump for his role in helping secure the release of hostages from Gaza and working to end the ongoing conflict.
Herzog, in a statement released on Monday, said Trump’s efforts had contributed to peace efforts in 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.
He added that the Israeli Presidential Medal of Honour would be formally presented to Trump in the coming months. The president is expected to personally inform Trump of the decision during his visit to Israel on Monday.
Trump, who proposed a 20-point peace plan aimed at ending more than two years of war between Israel and Hamas, will also attend a session with families of freed hostages and address the Israeli parliament.
The first phase of Trump’s peace deal includes a hostage-prisoner exchange between Israel and Hamas. The war began on October 7, 2023, after Hamas launched a deadly attack on Israel, sparking months of violence and humanitarian crisis.
The Israeli Presidential Medal of Honour is awarded to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the state of Israel or to humanity.
Former US President Barack Obama received the same award in 2013.
