President Isaac Herzog has sent a personal letter of appreciation to philanthropist Sylvan Adams, commending what he called a “historic partnership with the Government of Israel and Clalit Health Services” following Adams’s landmark $100 million donation to rebuild Soroka University Medical Center in Beersheba.
The hospital, a vital lifeline for southern Israel, was severely damaged in an Iranian missile strike earlier this year. Adams’s contribution will fund its reconstruction, turning it into one of the most advanced medical centers in the Middle East.
In his message, President Herzog expressed “deep gratitude for your unprecedented gift to the people of the Negev, and in fact – to the whole of Israel.” He praised Adams’s “conscientious leadership” and “forward-thinking entrepreneurial spirit,” describing the initiative as “a powerful message of healing, for which Israelis yearn.”
“This contribution sends a powerful message of healing, for which Israelis yearn,” Herzog wrote. “On behalf of all the lives you are saving – thank you, my friend.” He added that the project would “cement your legacy as a builder of Israel and a dedicated servant of your people.”
The public-private partnership between Adams, the Israeli government, and Clalit Health Services will see Soroka’s facilities expanded and modernized, with new emergency infrastructure and state-of-the-art medical technologies.
Responding to the President’s letter, Adams said: “I am deeply touched by the President’s kind words. This project is a collective act of healing and renewal – a testament to Israel’s resilience and unity. Together, we are building a stronger and more compassionate nation.”