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Israel’s education minister has formally invited President Donald Trump to attend the Israel Prize Award Ceremony in Jerusalem on April 22, where he is slated to receive a special lifetime honor for contributions to the State of Israel and the Jewish people.
Yoav Kisch announced the invitation this week in a post on X, saying he had sent a formal letter asking Trump to participate in the ceremony.
“This evening I sent a formal invitation to the President of the United States Donald Trump to participate in the Israel Prize ceremony,” Kisch wrote, sharing a copy of the letter.
Kisch’s ministry oversees the Israel Prize, awarded annually on Israel’s Independence Day and considered one of the country’s highest civilian honors.
In December, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said President Trump would receive the award in the category of “Unique Contribution to the Jewish People,” marking the first time a foreign leader has been selected for the honor.
“[It was] a historic decision that expresses recognition of his extraordinary contribution and its lasting impact on the Jewish people in Israel and around the world,” Kisch said.
In his letter, Kisch wrote that President Trump’s attendance would carry special significance.
“Your presence in Jerusalem to personally receive the Israel Prize would be a moment of profound significance for the people of Israel and a powerful expression of the deep and enduring friendship between our two nations,” he wrote.
“On behalf of the Government of Israel and the citizens of the State of Israel, I would be deeply honored if you would accept this invitation,” the letter added.
The ceremony is scheduled as part of celebrations marking Israel’s 78th Independence Day. Isaac Herzog, Netanyahu, senior government officials, leaders from across Israeli society and international guests are expected to attend.
An N12 report stated that, in addition to receiving an invitation to attend the ceremony, Trump has also been invited to light a torch during the 78th Independence Day ceremony.
The report added that the Israeli proposal has already been presented to the president and his team, who have confirmed it.
