Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has informed former U.S. President Donald Trump that he has been selected to receive the Israel Prize in the category of Special Contribution to the Jewish People, marking the first time in the country’s history that the award has been granted to a non-Israeli citizen.
The announcement was made during a phone call that included Netanyahu, Trump, and an Israeli minister speaking on behalf of the Israel Prize Committee.
The minister said the decision followed a recommendation by Netanyahu and was described as “historic,” noting that the special category was created to recognize individuals whose actions have had an exceptional and lasting impact on the Jewish people in Israel and globally.
According to the committee, Trump was recognized for what it described as “significant and consistent efforts” in support of Israel and the Jewish people.
These include his administration’s formal recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and the relocation of the U.S. Embassy there, recognition of Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, efforts to combat antisemitism, support for Israel’s right to defend itself, and involvement in initiatives related to the return of Israeli hostages.
The minister also cited Trump’s stance alongside Netanyahu against Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
During the call, Netanyahu interjected lightheartedly to remind the minister to mention U.S. strategic military support, joking that he had “forgotten the B-2s,” prompting laughter among the participants.
Trump thanked the committee and Netanyahu, calling the award “a great honor” and noting the significance of being the first recipient from outside Israel. He said he looked forward to meeting Israeli officials and expressed appreciation for the recognition.
The minister invited Trump to attend the award ceremony, scheduled for April 22 in Israel, coinciding with Independence Day.
He said Trump’s presence would be “an amazing privilege” for the Israeli people and emphasized the “pride and love” he claimed Trump enjoys among Israelis and Jewish communities worldwide.
The conversation also included personal exchanges, with Netanyahu highlighting the minister’s background as a former Israeli Air Force fighter pilot and general, and a brief discussion with Trump about military aircraft, including the F-16 and F-15. The call ended on a cordial and informal note, with expressions of mutual respect and gratitude.
The Israel Prize is the country’s most prestigious civilian honor and is traditionally awarded to Israeli citizens for lifetime achievement or outstanding contributions in science, culture, and society.
The upcoming ceremony will mark a departure from tradition with the inclusion of a non-Israeli recipient.
