‘Hero of Israel’ Fetterman to receive Yeshiva University’s highest honor

Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) is set to receive Yeshiva University’s highest honor for his service and global leadership, with the university proclaiming him as the “Hero of Israel.” 

Fetterman, a staunch supporter of Israel in its war against militant group Hamas, will be awarded the school’s “Presidential Medallion” during the institution’s 93rd annual commencement ceremony Wednesday, the school said in the news release. 

“Senator Fetterman is one of the true heroes of our time for his unwavering and courageous commitment to moral clarity, which has fortified our community and been a clarion call for our country,” Rabbi Dr. Ari Berman, the president of Yeshiva University, said in a statement.

The private Orthodox Jewish university’s commencement, which will be held later this week at Louis Armstrong Stadium in Queens, New York City, will celebrate more than 1,700 graduates. The event is set to be attended by over 5,000 students, families, faculty, alumni and friends, according to the school. 

“At this critical moment in Jewish and American history, our commencement exercises mark not just an enormous accomplishment for our students, but also for the global community,” Berman, said. “During this dark period of rampant antisemitism and polarization across college campuses, Yeshiva University students stand out for their academic excellence, character and commitment to service.”

Fetterman’s strong pro-Israel stance has, at times, alienated the left wing of his party, for often publicly voicing his support for the Israeli military’s actions in the Gaza Strip. His unwavering support of Israel has also placed him at odds with Democratic lawmakers in both chambers.

The Pennsylvania Democrat criticized President Biden’s decision to pause shipments of some bombs to Israel, saying the decision was “deeply disappointing.” 

The senator responded to the school’s announcing, saying he was humbled to be nominated for the award. 

“It is truly humbling to be invited to share in this milestone with the graduates of Yeshiva University,” Fetterman said in a statement. “As we gather to celebrate the achievements of the graduating class, we must also acknowledge the profound significance of their journey within the context of the recent surge in antisemitism across the country.”

“I thank Yeshiva University for the opportunity to join these students on this momentous day,” he added.