The Foundation for Defense of Democracies announced on Thursday the creation of the Alberto Nisman Award for Courage in honor of the Argentine special prosecutor who was found dead the day before he was set to testify on Iranian connections to a massive terrorist attack in Argentina.
The annual award will honor those who "relentlessly pursue justice for the victims of terrorism" without regard for the risk that they are putting their own lives in danger.
"This award is intended to recognize men and women who—like Alberto Nisman—relentlessly pursue justice for the victims of terrorism, and who risk their own lives protecting the innocent from the forces of hatred and intolerance," said FDD president Clifford May in a press release. "It is our honor and privilege to help preserve Alberto’s legacy and keep his memory alive."
Nisman spent years investigating the 1994 AMIA bombing, which killed 85 and injured many more. His investigation uncovered evidence that the attack was tied to Iranian terrorist networks and that senior Argentinian government officials may have been involved in covering up those connections.
Nisman was found dead in his apartment last month, the day before he was to testify before the Argentinian congress on the findings of his investigation.
"Alberto Nisman was a man of great courage and determination who pursued the evidence where it led him without fear or favor," said FDD executive director Mark Dubowitz.
The first annual award will be given to former Manhattan district attorney Robert Morgenthau.