Tel Aviv University (TAU) is proud to announce that it is awarding Steve Witkoff the George S. Wise Medal, one of the University’s highest honors. This accolade recognizes his pivotal contributions to the return of the hostages to Israel, efforts to end the war, and role in initiating early steps toward regional peace. The award ceremony is scheduled for May 2026 on the University campus during its annual Board of Governors meeting, with over one thousand attendees expected.

This prestigious decoration is given to prominent leaders with vision and impact as a tribute to their exceptional service to humanity, the people of Israel, and the State of Israel. Previous recipients include President of Singapore Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Prime Minister of Canada Dr. Mark J. Carney, former President of Poland Aleksander Kwasniewski, and the late Foreign Minister and Ambassador Abba Eban.

TAU President Professor Ariel Porat informed Mr. Witkoff of the decision just hours after the hostages’ return. Mr. Witkoff responded that he would accept the medal with great pride. 

In the letter sent to Mr. Witkoff, the University outlined its reasons for bestowing this honor: “You have been selected for the George S. Wise Medal for your tireless and successful work in bringing home the hostages, your remarkable availability to the families, and your commitment to achieving peace and an end to the war. Your actions reflect profound moral courage, empathy, and solidarity — values that lie at the heart of TAU’s mission.”

“There is no one more deserving than Steve Witkoff for our gratitude and recognition for his efforts in securing the return of the hostages, which ultimately succeeded,” Professor Porat said. “When I informed him of the University’s decision, he was deeply moved and asked if I would deliver the news personally to his mother. I asked him to bring her to the ceremony and he promised to do so. I felt honored to share in that moment.”