President Donald Trump will receive Israel’s highest civilian honor in 2026, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Monday, marking a rare break with tradition to recognize a non-citizen.

Netanyahu announced after meeting Trump in Florida, describing the decision as a reflection of broad public appreciation in Israel for the U.S. president’s support.

“President Trump has broken so many conventions,” Netanyahu told reporters. “So we decided to break a convention too, or create a new one, and that is to award the Israel Prize.”

The Israel Prize is typically reserved for Israeli citizens or residents, with a narrow exception for individuals who have made a special contribution to the Jewish people.

Only one other non-Israeli has received the prize under that exception: Indian conductor Zubin Mehta in 1991.

Netanyahu praised Trump as Israel’s “greatest friend ever,” citing his role in brokering a Gaza peace deal that led to the release of the last surviving hostages taken during the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas-led attacks.

“I have to say that this reflects the overwhelming sentiment of Israelis across the spectrum,” Netanyahu said. “They appreciate what you’ve done to help Israel and to help our common battle against the terrorists.”

Trump said he was surprised by the announcement and called the honor deeply meaningful.

“It’s really surprising and very much appreciated,” he said, suggesting he may travel to Israel for the ceremony.

The Israel Prize is traditionally awarded on the eve of Israel’s Independence Day.

For Trump, the award adds to a growing list of international recognitions he has cited as evidence of his role as a global peacemaker.

He has repeatedly claimed, without evidence, that he has “stopped eight wars,” arguing that his personal style and deal-making abilities have brought stability to global conflicts.

While Trump has said the Nobel Peace Prize does not concern him, he has also publicly expressed frustration at being overlooked for the award, including again in 2025.

The Israel Prize follows Trump’s recent receipt of the FIFA Peace Prize, another symbolic accolade aligned with his diplomatic ambitions, though still short of the Nobel honor he has openly coveted.