Donald Trump to Receive Israel’s Highest Civilian Honour in 2026

US President Donald Trump will be awarded Israel’s highest civilian honour, the Israel Prize, in 2026, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Monday, marking a rare break from decades of tradition to recognise a non-citizen.

Netanyahu made the announcement after a cordial meeting with Trump in Florida, saying the decision reflected “overwhelming sentiment” in Israel in appreciation of the US president’s strong support for the country.

“President Trump has broken so many conventions to the surprise of people, and then they figure out, ‘oh, well — maybe he was right after all,’” Netanyahu told reporters. “So we decided to break a convention too, or create a new one, and that is to award the Israel Prize.”

The Israeli prime minister has repeatedly praised Trump, previously describing him as Israel’s “greatest friend ever.” The latest accolade follows the release of the final 20 surviving hostages taken during the October 7, 2023 Hamas attacks, under a Gaza peace deal brokered by Trump and his team.

“This reflects the overwhelming sentiment of Israelis across the spectrum,” Netanyahu said. “They appreciate what you’ve done to help Israel and to help our common battle against terrorists and those who would destroy our civilisation.”

The Israel Prize is typically reserved for Israeli citizens or residents, with a limited exception for those who have made a “special contribution to the Jewish people.” The only other non-Israeli to have received the award under this category is renowned Indian conductor Zubin Mehta, who was honoured in 1991.

Trump said he was “really surprised and very much appreciative” of the recognition, and hinted that he may travel to Israel to attend the award ceremony, traditionally held on the eve of Israel’s Independence Day.

For Trump, the honour adds to his self-styled image as a global peacemaker. He has frequently claimed — without evidence — that he has “stopped eight wars,” portraying himself as uniquely capable of resolving international conflicts through personal diplomacy and deal-making.

While Trump has often insisted that missing out on the Nobel Peace Prize does not bother him, he has also publicly expressed frustration at being overlooked. The Israel Prize follows his recent receipt of the FIFA Peace Prize, another symbolic endorsement of his diplomatic ambitions, though one that still falls short of the Nobel honour he has openly sought.