Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu nominated US President Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, praising his role in advancing peace agreements in the Middle East. Netanyahu presented a copy of the nomination letter during a dinner with Trump at the White House.
“The President has already created major opportunities. He forged the Abraham Accords and is continuing to promote peace across countries and regions,” Netanyahu said while handing over the letter. “So, I want to present to you, Mr President, the letter I sent to the Nobel Committee – nominating you for the Peace Prize, which you richly deserve.”
A visibly surprised Trump thanked Netanyahu for the gesture. “Thank you very much. I didn’t know about this. Coming from you, this means a great deal,” he responded.
During the dinner, Netanyahu lauded Trump’s international leadership, particularly his contributions to Middle East peace and security. “I want to convey the admiration and appreciation not only of all Israelis but also of the Jewish people and many others around the world, for your leadership and efforts toward peace,” he said. Trump responded warmly, calling Netanyahu and his wife Sara “longtime friends,” and highlighting their shared “tremendous success” in recent years.
Earlier, before departing for Washington, Netanyahu told reporters that Israeli negotiators had been instructed to push for a ceasefire that aligns with Israel’s conditions. He expressed hope that his U.S. meetings would help advance the deal. “We’ve managed to secure the release of many hostages, and more are expected to be freed soon,” he said.
According to Israeli officials, 49 of the 251 hostages taken during Hamas’s October 2023 attack remain in Gaza, including 27 who are confirmed to have died.
Netanyahu has previously rejected Hamas’s latest response to a draft ceasefire deal backed by the United States, describing the terms as “unacceptable.” The proposal, mediated through Qatar and Egypt, outlines a phased agreement: a 60-day truce, gradual release of hostages, limited withdrawal of Israeli forces, and eventual negotiations to end the conflict.
