Netanyahu Announces Trump As Recipient Of Israel’s Highest Civilian Honour; Cites ‘Tremendous Contributions’

US President Donald Trump has warned Hamas to disarm within a ‘very short period of time’. He signalled that severe consequences would follow if the militant group failed to comply.

Trump made the remarks during a joint appearance with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at Mar-a-Lago in Florida.

The remarks came as Washington and Tel Aviv reiterated their close coordination on Middle East security and regional peace efforts.

Trump said that Hamas had already agreed in principle to give up its weapons. He emphasised that their disarmament had been discussed extensively.

He noted that his Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff and senior adviser Jared Kushner would oversee the process on behalf of the United States.

The US President warned that failure to honour the commitment would prompt action from Israel. Other nations backing the peace framework would also take action.

Trump rejected suggestions that Israel’s military posture in Gaza was linked to the disarmament timeline, describing the two matters as separate. He also dismissed claims that Israel had delayed the implementation of existing agreements, stating that it had fulfilled its obligations in full.

The US president said that 59 countries support the broader peace initiative, calling it a significant step toward long-term regional stability.

Trump further tied the diplomatic progress to firm US action against Iran. He warned that the US would respond swiftly and decisively to any renewed military build-up by Tehran.

While he stressed his preference for a peaceful outcome, Trump emphasised the need to honour agreements.

Netanyahu announced Trump as the recipient of Israel’s highest civilian honour, the Israel Prize, making him the first non-Israeli to receive the distinction. The move also underscored the strength of bilateral ties.

The prime minister cited Trump’s ‘tremendous contributions’ to Israel and the Jewish people. He also invited him to attend the formal ceremony on Israel’s Independence Day.

Netanyahu praised Trump as Israel’s strongest ally, crediting their close partnership with reshaping regional dynamics.

Trump, in turn, called the recognition a great honour. He lauded Netanyahu’s leadership during periods of conflict, describing him as instrumental to Israel’s survival and to securing regional agreements.

The announcements came amid ongoing discussions on Gaza, Iran, and broader Middle East security. Both leaders emphasised their alignment on key strategic goals.

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