Herzog Names 11 Recipients of the 2026 Presidential Medal

President Isaac Herzog announced the first group of 11 recipients of Israel's 2026 Presidential Medal, recognizing exceptional contributions to the state or humanity. The honorees include Rabbi Haim Sabato, actor Yona Elian Keshet, musician Yehuda Eder, former minister Moshe Nissim, Technion professor Hossam Haick, medical psychologist Mooli Lahad, social activist Ziva Mekonen and four other civic and academic figures. Herzog said the recipients embody giving, responsibility and mutual commitment, and his office said additional honorees from Israel and the Diaspora will be announced later this year.