Tel Aviv, Israel – In a move described by observers as an “unprecedented and exceptional gesture,” Israeli Education Minister Yoav Kisch extended a formal invitation to US President Donald Trump to attend the Israel Prize ceremony scheduled for next April. This invitation recognizes what Kisch termed Trump’s “exceptional leadership and historic impact” in strengthening relations between Tel Aviv and Washington. According to a report by Israel’s Channel 14, the anticipated visit would represent the pinnacle of Israeli honors bestowed upon Trump. The prize committee has decided to create a new category, “Unique Contribution to the Jewish People,” to award him the country’s highest civilian honor.
The “Gold and Stone” statue: a symbol of historical responsibility
For the first time in the award’s history, the honor will not be limited to the usual certificate. Instead, Trump will be presented with a unique statue designed by Israeli artist Ben-Dror, a 24-year-old reservist who served 600 days since the outbreak of the war. According to the designer, the statue carries profound symbolic meaning: its base is made of stones inspired by the Western Wall (the Wailing Wall), representing what he described as “the harsh and brutal history of the Jewish people.” The top features a gilded and gleaming Star of David emerging from the stones, symbolizing rebirth and the future. The statue is deliberately designed to be heavy, intended to convey to its bearer the “weight of historical responsibility.” It comes with the message that Trump’s contribution is “worth its weight in gold” and will remain etched in the Israeli memory.
The timing of the visit and its political implications
President Trump is expected to arrive in Israel ahead of the country’s 78th Independence Day celebrations. The ceremony will be attended by Israeli President Isaac Herzog and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This invitation fulfills a promise Netanyahu made to Trump during his visit to the Knesset, when he said, “Thank you for everything you have done for us… I intend to nominate you for Israel’s highest award.” The visit also aims to highlight the “historic steps” taken by Trump, including the recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital.
diplomatic message
A copy of the invitation was sent to the US ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee. It stated that the decision reflected “deep gratitude to the Israeli public.” Analysts believe this move aims to solidify the alliance.
