US President Donald Trump is unlikely to travel to Israel for the country’s 78th Independence Day celebrations next week, according to Israeli media reports, citing scheduling constraints linked to the ongoing ceasefire timeline with Iran. The development also means that his participation in the prestigious Israel Prize ceremony has been postponed.

Israeli news outlet Ynet reported that Trump will not attend the celebrations in person and is also not expected to participate virtually. The White House has not officially confirmed the decision, but officials in Jerusalem reportedly assess that the likelihood of his visit is minimal, given the ceasefire schedule, which is set to conclude on April 21, just a day before the planned ceremony.

Earlier, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had announced that Trump would be awarded the Israel Prize, the country’s highest cultural honour, marking a departure from tradition as it has historically been conferred only on Israeli citizens. Netanyahu had described the decision as creating a new precedent while acknowledging Trump’s ties with Israel.

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In light of Trump’s expected absence, the formal presentation of the award has been deferred and will instead take place during a future visit by the US President. During the scheduled ceremony, organisers are expected to acknowledge his selection through a video mention rather than a full presentation.

The report also noted that singer Noa Kirel’s planned performance at the event has been postponed. She was expected to perform in honour of Trump, with the possibility of his family members joining the programme.

Meanwhile, Javier Milei is expected to attend the Independence Day celebrations as planned. His visit had reportedly been finalised prior to the ceasefire arrangements, and he is scheduled to arrive in Israel on April 18 to participate in the commemorative events.

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