The most senior decoration Israel bestows on non-Jews was presented to the four Croats or their descendants by Israeli Ambassador to Croatia Yael Rubinstein at a ceremony at Zagreb City Hall.
"Let me express on Israel's behalf our deepest gratitude and respect to heroes who were willing to risk their lives for the benefit of humanity," said Rubinstein.
"I am honoured to express respect to four persons who join the 95 outstanding Croats who preserved their humanity and conscience in the darkest moments," she added.
The event was also addressed by President Stjepan Mesic, Parliament Deputy Speaker Luka Bebic, and Science and Education Minister Dragan Primorac. They stressed that neither the crime committed against Jews nor the actions of good people who risked their lives must be forgotten.
"The ideology which started the destruction of an entire people must never be given citizens' status again," said Mesic, stressing that he objected to any attempt at historical revisionism.
"Croatia is determined to promote democracy and human rights, and the best was to fight the holocaust is quality education for all citizens," said Primorac.
The four Croats decorated today hid Jews in their houses during WW2.