Full Breakdown
President Isaac Herzog Welcomes Make-A-Wish “Wish Kid” Arbel Rot
8/17/2026, 4:12:02 AM
Core Event: Presidential Residence Visit
On August 11, 2026, President Isaac Herzog received 14-year-old Arbel Rot, a critically ill child from Nahariya, at the President’s Residence in Jerusalem. The meeting was organized by Make-A-Wish Israel, which grants wishes to children with serious illnesses. During the visit, Herzog shook Rot’s hand, welcomed him warmly, and spent time answering the boy’s questions.
Background & Context
The founders have previously accompanied children during meetings with former presidents Shimon Peres and Reuven Rivlin. This visit marked the third such event for the Bar-Aharons and continued the organization’s tradition of pairing wishes with high-profile public figures.
Official Statements & Responses
He added that meeting Arbel was a “privilege” and expressed wishes for the boy’s health.
The organization emphasized that moments like these reinforce its mission to create lasting memories for children facing serious health challenges.
Impact and Reactions
The visit was reported as “deeply moving” for both Rot and his family, highlighting the emotional significance of allowing a child to experience a day in the nation’s highest office.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I was excited to host 14-year-old Arbel Rot, who bravely fought his illness, as part of a special Make-A-Wish Israel day, and to fulfill his wish of being the king of the world and to feel what it's like to be the president of the country for a day,” — Isaac Herzog, president
- “I was privileged to meet the intelligent, curious, and exciting Arbel, and to answer his questions,” — Isaac Herzog, president
