In a gesture of gratitude that underscored his government’s close alliance with Washington, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday reportedly announced that he has nominated President Donald J. Trump for the Israel Prize, the country’s highest civilian honor, during a jubilant address to the Knesset celebrating the release of hostages held by Hamas.
With President Trump seated beside him, Netanyahu praised the American leader as Israel’s “best friend,” crediting him for brokering the landmark peace agreement that ended the two-year conflict between Israel and Hamas and secured the release of hostages held in Gaza for 737 days. “Mr. President, thank you for all you have done for us,” Netanyahu declared. “I have submitted your nomination to be the first non-Israeli recipient of the Israel Prize, Israel’s highest award.”
The announcement drew a standing ovation from lawmakers across the chamber, many of whom applauded the prime minister’s recognition of Trump’s decisive role in the ceasefire and hostage deal that has been widely described in Israel as historic.
Netanyahu, who has long enjoyed a close personal and political relationship with Trump, also took a pointed jab at the Nobel Peace Prize, which many in both Israel and the United States had expected might go to Trump following the peace deal.
Instead, the award was given Friday to Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado, who nonetheless dedicated it to the American president.
Riffing on that outcome, Netanyahu quipped to laughter, “As to that other prize, it’s just a question of time. You’ll get it.” He added, “But I want you to get the Israel Prize, our highest award to our greatest friend.”
Throughout his speech, the prime minister framed Trump’s leadership as a decisive factor in the peace agreement and the broader stability of the region. “When others were weak, you were strong,” Netanyahu said. “When others were fearful, you were bold. When others abandoned us, you stood by our side.”
The prime minister continued: “On behalf of the government and people of Israel, I thank you for your extraordinary friendship. Thank you for helping bring our hostages home. Thank you for supporting Israel’s march to victory. Thank you for paving a path to peace.”
The nomination represents an unprecedented moment in the history of the Israel Prize, which has never before been
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