Is Trump set to receive Israel’s Presidential Medal of Honour for securing hostages and advancing regional peace?

Trump to be awarded Israel’s highest honour?

Israeli President Isaac Herzog has announced that he will present U.S. President Donald Trump with Israel’s highest civilian award, the Israeli Presidential Medal of Honor, in recognition of his role in securing the release of hostages from Gaza and aiding the peace process.

“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 in a statement issued by his office. “It will be a great honour for me to present him with the Israeli Presidential Medal of Honor,” he added.

Herzog highlighted Trump’s broader contributions to regional stability and Israel’s security. According to Jerusalem Post, he said: “President Trump’s legacy will be remembered for generations by the State of Israel and the Jewish people. From his unwavering support for the State of Israel, to the advent of the Abraham Accords which expanded the circle of peace in our region, from the two historic agreements that brought our dear hostages home and saved countless lives, to the decisive strike on Iran’s nuclear program, President Trump’s voice has always been one of courage and leadership, and of steadfast commitment to the pursuit of peace and humanity.”

The award will formally be presented in the “coming months” at a time and place yet to be determined. Herzog is expected to inform Trump of his decision during the US president’s visit to Israel on Monday, AFP reported. During the brief visit, Trump is anticipated to meet families of hostages and address the Israeli parliament.

The medal coincides with a pivotal moment in the region, as Israel and Hamas carry out a hostage-prisoner exchange under the first phase of Trump’s 20-point peace plan, aimed at ending more than two years of war that began with Hamas’ attack on Israel on 7 October 2023.

The Israeli Presidential Medal of Honor is awarded to individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the State of Israel or humanity. Previous recipients include former US president Barack Obama in 2013.

Herzog noted that the award also recognises Trump’s “unique contribution to Israel’s security and the well-being of its citizens, and his commitment to leading the entire region toward an era of peace and cooperation.”