President Herzog Honors 11 Israelis for Exceptional Contributions
Israeli President Isaac Herzog presented the Presidential Medal of Distinction for 2026 to 11 individuals on Sunday evening, September 6, 2026, at the President's Residence. The award recognizes exceptional and ongoing contributions to Israel, its society, and humanity.
Among the recipients was Professor Hussam Haick, from Nazareth, honored for his significant achievements in science, research, and innovation, impacting Israel and the world. The other honorees included Yona Eliash-Kishat, Professor Mooli Lahad, Professor Hephzibah Lifshitz, Professor Yossi Leshem, Aybi Moses, Ziva Mekonen, Advocate Moshe Nissim, Rabbi Haim Sabato, Yehuda Eder, and Professor Uriel Reichman.
President Herzog praised the recipients, calling them "Israel's dream team" and highlighting their role as beacons in their fields who have made a tangible impact both domestically and internationally, enhancing Israel's global standing.
He also emphasized the importance of societal diversity in Israel and the increasing involvement of Arab citizens in public life, civil service, and the public sector. Herzog stated that Israel's future will be more diverse and pluralistic.
Addressing current political divisions, Herzog urged for societal cohesion, stating, "Elections are not a civil war! After the elections, we will all still be here together; brothers and sisters." The Presidential Medal of Distinction, initiated by the late President Shimon Peres, was first awarded in 2012 to individuals who have made extraordinary contributions.
The ceremony was attended by the head of the medal's advisory committee, retired Supreme Court Justice Professor Yoram Danziger, and the head of the Jewish Agency, Major General (Res.) Doron Almog, along with bereaved families and families of hostages returned to Israel.
