Netanyahu nominates Trump for Nobel Peace Prize after Iran strike ends 12-day war with Israel

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has formally nominated US President Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, citing his recent actions in the Middle East and past diplomatic efforts.

During a meeting at the White House on Monday(July 7), Netanyahu handed Trump a nomination letter addressed to the Norwegian Nobel Committee, praising the US president for his “leadership of a just cause.”

The Israeli leader referenced Trump’s decision last month to authorize US military aircraft to enter Iranian airspace and strike nuclear facilities. This action helped bring an end to a 12-day Israel-Iran conflict.


“This honor is well-deserved,” Netanyahu said, standing alongside Trump in the White House’s Blue Room. “I want to express the appreciation and admiration, not only of all Israelis but of the Jewish people and many, many admirers around the world for your leadership.”

Trump, visibly surprised, responded: “Coming from you, this is very meaningful.” The president has previously expressed frustration at never having received the Nobel Prize, despite brokering the 2020 Abraham Accords and several other international deals. “This is news to me,” he added with a smile.

The meeting between the two leaders comes as Israel and Hamas remain locked in negotiations over a potential ceasefire in Gaza. Netanyahu’s visit marks his third to Washington since Trump returned to office in January. A private dinner was scheduled between the two following their public remarks.

Families of Israeli hostages held in Gaza have also traveled to Washington this week, pressing both governments to ensure any ceasefire deal includes the release of all remaining captives. “A partial deal means a death sentence,” said Ilan Dalal, whose son is believed to be held in a Hamas tunnel network.

The White House has not officially commented on the nomination beyond confirming that discussions touched on Iran, Gaza, and ongoing ceasefire talks being brokered in Qatar.

This is not the first time Trump has been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. During his first term, he received nominations for his role in facilitating peace agreements between Israel and several Arab nations.

Netanyahu also met separately with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio earlier in the day.

The Nobel Committee does not publicly disclose nominees until 50 years after the award is given, but nominators are free to publicize their choices. The 2025 Peace Prize will be announced in October.