Bar-Ilan to Honor US Envoy Witkoff for Hostage Release and Peace Efforts

Bar-Ilan University has announced that it will confer an honorary doctorate on US Special Envoy to the Middle East, Steven Witkoff, in recognition of his extraordinary role in securing the release of Israeli hostages and advancing peace efforts following the war in Gaza. The announcement was made by Bar-Ilan President Prof. Arie Zaban during the 2026 Jerusalem Post Miami Summit.

The prestigious title of Philosophy Honoris Causa is the highest honor the university can bestow and marks a milestone in Bar-Ilan’s 70th anniversary celebrations. Witkoff now joins a historic list of honorees that includes iconic leaders such as Elie Wiesel, George H.W. Bush, Margaret Thatcher, Mikhail Gorbachev, and Israeli prime ministers Yitzhak Rabin, Shimon Peres, and Ariel Sharon.

“Mr. Witkoff’s moral leadership helped bring an end to Israel’s longest and bitterest war, the return of the hostages, and opened the door to normalization and regional peace,” said Prof. Zaban. “His unique ability to meet grief with true empathy allowed him to be welcomed in places where others have failed.”

Witkoff’s influence, Zaban noted, mobilized global support for the values of freedom, justice, and security principles at the core of Israel’s mission and identity. His diplomatic efforts have not only contributed to the ceasefire and repatriation of hostages but also advanced dialogue with international partners, including in difficult arenas like Iran.

In recent months, Witkoff has been at the forefront of critical diplomatic engagements, including private conversations with Iranian officials during the country’s ongoing internal unrest. His dialogue with Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi underscores his central role in shaping the future of Middle Eastern diplomacy. These talks come amid renewed tensions following statements by former President Donald Trump regarding potential intervention in Iran, and subsequent threats by Iranian officials toward Israel and American interests in the region.

Despite the complex geopolitical backdrop, Witkoff’s steady hand and reputation for integrity have earned him rare access and widespread respect. His ability to foster trust and focus on actionable outcomes has positioned him as a central figure in regional stabilization efforts.

By awarding him this honorary degree, Bar-Ilan University is not only honoring a peacemaker it is affirming its commitment to values that transcend politics: human dignity, dialogue, and the pursuit of lasting peace.

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