Trump to Receive Israel's Highest Civilian Honor: Understanding the Presidential Medal of Honour

The Israeli Presidential Medal of Honour represents the highest civilian recognition awarded in Israel.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog announced Monday that Donald Trump will receive Israel's highest civilian honor for his instrumental role in securing the release of Gaza hostages and bringing the conflict to a halt.

"It will be a great honor for me to present him with the Israeli Presidential Medal of Honour," President Herzog stated.

"Through his tireless efforts, President Trump has not only helped bring our loved ones home but has also established foundations for a new Middle Eastern era characterized by security, cooperation, and genuine hope for peace."

Herzog added that the medal ceremony will take place in the "coming months," and Trump will be notified during his Monday visit.

The Israeli Presidential Medal of Honour, established in 2012 by then-President Shimon Peres, recognizes exceptional contributions to Israel or humanity from both Israeli citizens and foreign individuals. Recipients earn this distinction through remarkable public service, leadership, or other significant achievements that advance Israel's interests, promote peace, or foster global goodwill.

According to the official award guidelines, candidates must meet at least one qualifying standard through either singular accomplishment or sustained effort:

"The candidate has made a unique contribution to the State of Israel or to tikkun olam, or has left a mark on society in his field of endeavour or accomplishments."

"The candidate has elevated the status of the State of Israel and made a unique contribution to its global image."

"The candidate serves as an example and role model of initiative, innovation, creativity, and vision."

During Shimon Peres' presidency, twenty-six individuals received this prestigious honor, including former US President Barack Obama, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Rabbi Yisrael Meir Lau, Nobel Prize Laureate Eli Wiesel, former US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, and Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz.

Designed by Yossi Matityahu, the medal features an inscription from the Book of Samuel that translates approximately to "head and shoulders above the crowd."