JERUSALEM, Oct 13 (The African Portal) – Israeli President Isaac Herzog said on Monday he will award the country’s highest civilian honour to U.S. President Donald Trump for his role in securing the release of hostages from Gaza and helping to end the war with Hamas.
“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.
Herzog said he would confer the Israeli Presidential Medal of Honour on Trump in the “coming months” and inform him of the decision during his visit to Israel on Monday.
Israel and Hamas are expected to carry out a hostage-prisoner exchange the same day as part of the first phase of a peace plan proposed by Trump.
The U.S. president’s 20-point plan seeks to end more than two years of conflict between Israel and Hamas, which began after the Palestinian militant group launched a surprise attack on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023.
During his brief visit, Trump is expected to meet families of hostages and address the Israeli parliament, the Knesset.
The Israeli Presidential Medal of Honour is awarded to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the state or to humanity. Former U.S. President Barack Obama received the award in 2013.
