President Isaac Herzog Awards the Israeli Presidential Medal of Honor
In a moving ceremony at the President’s Residence in Jerusalem, Israel’s President Isaac Herzog presented the Israeli Presidential Medal of Honor to seven distinguished leaders from around the globe. This prestigious recognition was bestowed upon Jewish and non-Jewish figures for their unwavering commitment to Israel and the Jewish people, especially in the wake of the tragic events of October 7.
Honoring Exceptional Contributions
The Israeli Presidential Medal of Honor, established by Israel’s ninth president Shimon Peres in 2012, is awarded to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to Israel or humanity through their talents, service, or other endeavors. This year’s recipients—hailing from France, the United States, Australia, the United Kingdom, and Germany—have dedicated decades to fostering ties with Israel, combating antisemitism, and supporting Jewish communities worldwide.
The Honorees
- Maurice Lévy (France): Known for fostering business, social, and political ties between France and Israel, Lévy has been a staunch advocate against antisemitism in Europe.
- Malcolm Hoenlein (USA): As a longtime leader of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, Hoenlein has strengthened U.S.-Israel relations and Jewish unity.
- Julie Platt (USA): Chair of the Jewish Federations of North America, Platt has worked tirelessly to bolster the bond between North American Jewry and Israel.
- Sir Frank Lowy (Australia and Israel): A Holocaust survivor and philanthropist, Lowy has supported Israeli society in fields such as health, education, and social welfare.
- Sir Trevor Chinn (UK): A leader in British Jewry, Chinn has championed Israel-UK relations and defended Israel’s image in public and diplomatic spheres.
- Brigitte Zypries (Germany): Former German Minister of Economic Affairs and Justice, Zypries has been pivotal in strengthening Israel-Germany ties and combating antisemitism in Europe.
- Mark Leibler (Australia): A prominent attorney and Jewish community leader, Leibler has worked extensively for human rights and Israel’s global standing.
A Message of Resilience
During the ceremony, President Herzog reflected on the profound challenges facing Israel and the Jewish people, including the ongoing war and the plight of hostages in Gaza. “This is a moment to recognize those who light our way,” he said, praising the honorees for their courageous efforts to support Israel during times of crisis and throughout decades of dedicated service.
He added: “At this moment of unprecedented turmoil, we celebrate individuals who have consciously taken risks and worked tirelessly to enhance Israel and strengthen our nation. Your actions remind us of the resilience and unity that define the Jewish people.”
Speaking on Behalf of the Honorees
Julie Platt, speaking on behalf of the recipients, emphasized the shared bond between Jewish communities worldwide. “We are all one people,” she said, highlighting the collective pain and joy that unite Jews across the globe. She expressed gratitude for the recognition and reaffirmed the recipients’ dedication to supporting Israel and Jewish communities everywhere.
Recognizing Excellence Amid Challenges
The evening’s ceremony served as a poignant reminder of the unbreakable bond between Israel and its supporters worldwide. The Israeli Presidential Medal of Honor not only acknowledges individual achievements but also underscores the shared resilience and unity of the Jewish people in the face of adversity.
