Begin Prize Laureates for 2026 Announced

The Menachem Begin Heritage Center in Jerusalem has announced the four recipients of the 2026 Begin Prize, awarded annually for exceptional contributions to the Jewish people or the State of Israel. This year's honorees are the Tikunah Forum, Yoram Aridor, Miriam Amadi, and Professor Miriam Adelson. The award ceremony is scheduled for Tuesday, December 8, 2026, the fifth night of Hanukkah, at the Center's premises.

The Tikunah Forum, operated by rabbis, educators, legal professionals, and therapists, focuses on preventing sexual abuse by individuals in positions of authority within the religious public. The forum provides a listening ear and an alternative avenue for addressing complaints of sexual harassment that may not reach the authorities, operating in full cooperation and coordination with the State Prosecutor's Office and law enforcement. The prize committee cited the forum for standing by victims of sexual abuse, setting behavioral standards for spiritual and religious leaders, and fostering rabbinical leadership committed to an ethical code that ensures safety in the teacher-student dynamic.

Yoram Aridor, a veteran public figure and former minister under Menachem Begin, is recognized for his decades of service and significant economic and social reforms as Finance Minister. The committee lauded him for his contributions to Israeli society and for serving as a model of liberal economic leadership that transformed the Israeli economy from a centralized, socialist model to a free market based on initiative, competition, and prosperity.

Miriam Amadi, a social activist and CEO of the Forum of Reserve Soldiers' Wives, is honored for leading the public campaign for the rights of reserve soldiers' wives and their families since the outbreak of the "Swords of Iron" war. The committee acknowledged the forum's efforts in securing achievements aimed at protecting the rights and improving the situation of these women, who bear significant personal, familial, and economic costs while defending the country's borders. Amadi stated that receiving the award is a great honor and a deep excitement, connecting it to Menachem Begin's values of love for the people and land, and a sense of mission and responsibility.

Professor Miriam Adelson, an Israeli-American physician and philanthropist, is recognized for her global leadership in combating addiction and her significant support for Israel and the Jewish people. She has funded educational, cultural, and health institutions in Israel and abroad, working to strengthen Jewish identity and combat antisemitism. The committee highlighted her exemplary responsibility, leadership, and personal sacrifice, combining practical Zionism with deep civic engagement and international influence, thereby empowering Israeli society and promoting national commitment and dedication.