Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Monday that U.S. President Donald Trump will be awarded the Israel Prize for Peace, making him the first non-Israeli leader to receive Israel’s highest civilian honor, Israeli officials confirmed. The announcement came during a high-profile meeting between the two leaders at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to advance a fragile Gaza ceasefire and peace plan.
The Israel Prize is Israel’s most prestigious award, traditionally given to Israeli citizens for exceptional contributions in fields such as culture, science, and humanities. In 2025, Israeli authorities amended eligibility rules for the Peace category—a rare designation—to allow foreign citizens to be considered, clearing the path for Trump’s selection.
Historic Recognition for Trump
Netanyahu praised Trump’s “tremendous contributions to Israel and the Jewish people” as a rationale for the award, saying the decision reflected what he described as “the overwhelming sentiment of Israelis across the political spectrum.” The honor recognizes Trump’s diplomatic and strategic support — including key steps such as moving the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem and supporting Israel’s security policies.
Trump responded to the announcement by calling the news “really surprising and very much appreciated” and hinted that he might travel to Israel to accept the prize at a ceremony traditionally held around Israel’s Independence Day celebration.
Why This Matters
This decision marks a historic break with tradition — the Israel Prize has never before been awarded to a non-Israeli head of state, though it has occasionally been conferred on non-Israeli individuals in exceptional categories, such as Indian conductor Zubin Mehta in 1991. The 2025 revision of prize eligibility specifically for the Peace category enabled Trump to qualify.
The award underscores the close personal and political alliance between Netanyahu and Trump, who have cooperated on Middle East policy amid shifting regional dynamics and efforts to solidify a long-term ceasefire between Israel and Gaza.
Context of the Announcement
The announcement came on the heels of Trump’s and Netanyahu’s discussions over advancing the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal, a diplomatic plan that has faced setbacks and ongoing negotiations. The two leaders also tackled broader regional security concerns, including the disarmament of Hamas and threats posed by Iran’s nuclear ambitions, according to multiple news reports.
Netanyahu described the meeting as productive and emphasized the symbolic importance of honoring Trump’s leadership, portraying the former U.S. president as one of Israel’s closest allies.
Reactions and Next Steps
International observers are watching closely to see how the award — and the broader diplomatic engagement it reflects — influences the Middle East peace process and Israel’s relationships with global partners. Some experts believe the move strengthens Trump’s role in regional diplomacy, while others see it as a symbolic gesture amid complex peace negotiations.
Trump’s upcoming schedule and plans for the official award ceremony have not yet been finalized, but reports indicate he may attend events in Israel to accept the honor personally.
