U.S. President Donald Trump will be awarded Israel’s highest civilian honor, the Israel Peace Prize, marking the first time in 80 years it has been given to a non-Israeli. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the decision after meeting Trump in Florida, highlighting his contributions to Israeli and Jewish communities and support in the fight against terrorism.
Israel Honors Trump with Peace Prize, Breaking Tradition
Washington: US President Donald Trump will be awarded Israel's highest civilian honor, the Israel Peace Prize. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the announcement on Monday after meeting with Trump in Florida. Netanyahu said the award is being given to Trump for his contributions to Israel and the Jewish community.
Netanyahu told a press conference that this award has not been given to a non-Israeli citizen in the last 80 years. He also said that this is the first time the award will be given in the peace category. US President Trump also expressed his happiness at the announcement and called it an unexpected honor.
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The Israeli Prime Minister said, "President Trump has broken many traditions, so we have also started a new tradition. This award is for the contributions he has made to the well-being of the Israeli people and in the shared fight against terrorism." He also said that the Education Minister informed Trump about the award during a meal.
Israel has never had a friend in the White House like President Trump. His leadership, clarity, and unwavering support for Israel are exceptional.
True friendship is proven in moments of challenge, and President Trump has stood with Israel every step of the way. 🇺🇸🇮🇱… pic.twitter.com/KwLGtatNsC
— Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) December 29, 2025
Trump may receive the award during Israel's Independence Day celebrations. Israel amended its rules in July 2025 to allow the award to be given to foreign citizens, paving the way for Trump's selection. Trump has indicated that he is considering attending the ceremony.
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The Israel Peace Prize was traditionally awarded to Israeli citizens who have made outstanding contributions in science, art, and humanities. However, now foreigners can also be honored in this category. According to Netanyahu, this step has been taken to strengthen Israeli and American cooperation and to contribute to global peace.
Trump said that this honor is special and unexpected for him. He said that he is proud that his contributions have been recognized internationally. Political and global analysts consider this a significant step towards strengthening US-Israeli relations.
