Israel Merkel receives an honorary doctorate from the Weizmann Institute
The renowned Weizmann Institute in Israel has awarded former German Chancellor Angela Merkel (CDU) an honorary doctorate. This is in recognition of "her unparalleled contributions to global diplomacy and international partnerships", the institute announced in the evening. The reason for the award was also her "solidarity and friendship with Israel" as well as "her determined fight against anti-Semitism", the press release continued.
10.11.2025, 19:32
SDA
Under Merkel's leadership, Germany had significantly deepened its relations with Israel and expanded its military aid. The former Chancellor also played "a key role in economic stabilization during the euro crisis", the institute praised.
The Weizmann Institute in Rechovot, south of Tel Aviv, is one of the best scientific research institutes in the world. During Merkel's farewell visit to Israel as Chancellor in 2021, it named a scholarship after her. Merkel said that Israel's security is a reason of state for Germany.
During the most recent war between Israel and Iran in June, the Weizmann Institute was hit by two Iranian missiles. The missiles caused severe damage there. According to the institute, a total of 112 buildings on the campus were affected, including 65 research buildings. Important research facilities were destroyed and the results of decades of scientific work were destroyed. The damage is estimated at the equivalent of around 530 million euros.
Meeting with Netanyahu not planned
Merkel's other appointments in Israel are not yet known. However, her spokeswoman told Deutsche Presse-Agentur that a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is not planned. During a recent visit to Hungary, the former CDU leader unexpectedly met with Prime Minister Viktor Orban.
Due to the trip to Israel, Merkel canceled her participation in the 70th birthday celebration for Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Tuesday.
