Netanyahu Nominates Trump for Nobel Peace Prize Amid Mixed Reactions
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has formally nominated former U.S. President Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, the prestigious international award honoring individuals or organizations that have significantly advanced global peace and diplomacy.
In a letter to the Nobel Committee, which he shared publicly, Netanyahu praised Trump for his “steadfast and exceptional dedication to promoting peace, security, and stability worldwide.” Trump, who has previously been nominated for the prize, has recently engaged in efforts to broker a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. Earlier this year, Pakistan also expressed support for Trump’s nomination, citing his role in de-escalating tensions between India and Pakistan.
However, Netanyahu’s endorsement has drawn skepticism, with critics suggesting political motivations behind the move. Former Swedish Prime Minister Carl Bildt remarked on social media that the nomination appeared to be an attempt to “flatter” Trump.
If selected, Trump would join the ranks of five other U.S. presidents who have received the award, including Theodore Roosevelt, Woodrow Wilson, Jimmy Carter, and Barack Obama.
How the Nobel Peace Prize Works
Who Is Eligible?
Established by Alfred Nobel, the inventor of dynamite, the prize is awarded to individuals or organizations that have made exceptional contributions to fostering peace, reducing military conflicts, or promoting international cooperation. Living individuals and active institutions are eligible for consideration.
According to Jorgen Watne Frydnes, Chair of the Nobel Peace Prize Committee, the award is open to people from all walks of life and regions of the world.
Nomination Process
Nominations for the Nobel Peace Prize close in January each year, with winners announced in October. Netanyahu’s nomination of Trump will be considered for the 2025 award.
Eligible nominators include:
- Government and parliamentary officials
- Current heads of state
- University professors in relevant fields
- Former Nobel Peace Prize laureates
Self-nominations are not permitted. While the list of nominees remains confidential for 50 years, nominators may publicly disclose their choices.
Selection Process
The Norwegian Nobel Committee, composed of five members appointed by Norway’s parliament, oversees the selection. The committee reviews hundreds of nominations—338 candidates (244 individuals and 94 organizations) were considered for the 2025 prize.
After narrowing down the list, the committee consults experts to assess shortlisted candidates. Decisions are ideally unanimous but can be determined by majority vote. The final choice is often made just days before the announcement.
Controversies
The Nobel Peace Prize has frequently been scrutinized for perceived political bias. Past awards have sparked debate, such as:
- Barack Obama’s 2009 win, just months into his presidency.
- Henry Kissinger and Le Duc Tho’s 1973 award for negotiating the Vietnam War ceasefire, which led to two committee members resigning.
- Yasser Arafat’s shared 1994 prize with Israeli leaders Shimon Peres and Yitzhak Rabin, prompting one committee member to step down.
Prize Details
The laureate receives:
- A medal and diploma
- 11 million Swedish kronor (~$1.15 million)
- Global recognition
Key Dates
- Announcement: October 10, 2025 (Norwegian Nobel Institute, Oslo)
- Award Ceremony: December 10, 2025 (Oslo City Hall, marking Alfred Nobel’s death anniversary)
(Compiled from reports by Gwladys Fouche and Simon Johnson; additional reporting by David Brunnstrom; Edited by Rod Nickel and Rosalba O’Brien)
*(Conversion: $1 = 9.5584 Swedish kronor)*