Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has formally nominated U.S. President Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, citing his diplomatic efforts to forge peace across multiple regions. Netanyahu made the announcement during a dinner with Trump at the White House on Monday, where he presented the U.S. leader with a copy of the letter he submitted to the Nobel Committee.
“He’s forging peace as we speak, in one country, in one region after the other,” Netanyahu said during the event, praising Trump’s involvement in several international negotiations.
Trump has been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize multiple times over the years by political allies and supporters, though he has never received the award. He has repeatedly expressed frustration over what he perceives as a lack of recognition for his diplomatic initiatives.
Last month, the Pakistani government also announced its decision to recommend Trump for the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize. Officials in Islamabad credited him with “decisive diplomatic intervention and pivotal leadership” during the recent flare-up between India and Pakistan, which saw several days of cross-border shelling before ending in a ceasefire.
The Republican president has previously claimed credit for mediating a number of international disputes, including tensions between Serbia and Kosovo, as well as the longstanding disagreement between Egypt and Ethiopia over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam. He also often points to the Abraham Accords—agreements reached under his previous administration to normalise diplomatic ties between Israel and several Arab countries—as a key achievement in Middle East diplomacy.
Despite these claims, Trump’s current presidency has yet to deliver breakthroughs in two of the world’s most pressing conflicts: the wars in Ukraine and Gaza. Trump campaigned in 2024 as a self-described “peacemaker” and pledged to bring a swift end to both conflicts. However, more than five months into his presidency, both wars continue with little sign of resolution.
Critics argue that while Trump has pursued high-profile diplomatic moves, his efforts have not always resulted in lasting peace or stability. Supporters, on the other hand, view his direct negotiation style and willingness to engage with adversaries as an asset on the global stage.
The Norwegian Nobel Committee does not disclose individual nominations until 50 years after they are submitted. While being nominated is not uncommon—hundreds of individuals and organizations are put forward each year—the final decision rests with the five-member committee based in Oslo.
Netanyahu’s endorsement is expected to further fuel the ongoing debate over Trump’s foreign policy legacy and his place in the history of international diplomacy.
