The Jerusalem Honored Citizen Selection Committee, chaired by retired District Court President Judge David Hashin, has announced the 12 honorees for 2026. This prestigious award, presented since 1967, recognizes individuals who have made unique and extraordinary contributions to the capital, reflecting a broad human mosaic of medicine, culture, education, and infrastructure. These honorees represent a spirit of giving and connection between the city’s diverse sectors, with their work deeply woven into the history and physical development of modern Jerusalem.
Which honorees won the Jerusalem Honored Citizen award for 2026?
The list of winners includes exemplary figures who have served Jerusalem’s society: Mr. Avraham Bardarian for developing major projects like the light rail; Adv. Elias Khoury for promoting coexistence and establishing scholarship funds; Mr. Eliyahu Aboud Levy for building national and cultural institutions; Mr. Ben Zion (Richard) Hochstein for leading the medical revolution at Shaare Zedek; Dr. David Zakut for making women’s health services accessible; Prof. Chaim Lotan for pioneering breakthroughs in cardiology; Mr. Yaakov Efrati for developing urban infrastructure; Dr. Miriam Kidron for advanced scientific research in biochemistry; Mr. Moshe Gertel for his work as a sports broadcaster promoting a healthy lifestyle; Dr. Nili Yanai for providing humane medical care to thousands of women; Ms. Simcha Siani for enriching Jerusalem’s culture and literature; and Ms. Sarah Mundrer for strengthening the city’s education system over decades.
Mayor of Jerusalem, Moshe Lion: “The 12 exemplary women and men chosen as Honored Citizens of Jerusalem embody the human, ethical, and professional mosaic of Jerusalem. Each and every one of them is a cornerstone in building a city that is value-driven, advanced, inclusive, and united. Their years of work-in health, education, culture, science, infrastructure, sports, and social action-is a living testament to the love of Jerusalem and a deep commitment to its residents”. The list will be brought to the City Council for approval, and the moving ceremony will be held as every year on Jerusalem Day
