‘He’s forging peace as we…’: Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu nominates Donald Trump for Nobel Peace Prize
At the White House on Monday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu surprised President Donald Trump by handing him a letter recommending him for the Nobel Peace Prize. “Mr. President, this is the note I’ve sent to the Nobel committee nominating you for the peace prize, an honor you richly deserve,” Netanyahu said as he passed the document across the table.
Netanyahu then praised Trump’s “relentless drive for peace and security,” pointing in particular to his influence in the Middle East. He said American and Israeli officials together formed “a remarkable partnership” capable of confronting challenges and seizing fresh opportunities, an apparent nod to recent U.S. actions directed at Iran. “He’s forging peace as we speak, in one country, in one region after the other,” the prime minister added.
Trump reacts to Netanyahu’s nomination
Trump, who has often voiced his ambition to be a Nobel laureate, looked genuinely touched. “Thank you very much. This I didn’t know—wow, thank you very much. Coming from you… This is very meaningful,” he replied.
As their dinner meeting began, Trump warmly welcomed Israeli PM Netanyahu and his wife, Sara, calling it a personal honor to host them.
“It’s a real privilege to have Bibi and Sara here,” Trump said, using Netanyahu’s nickname. “They’ve been close friends of mine for many years. We’ve accomplished a lot together, and I believe the best is still to come.”
He spoke with familiarity and confidence, reflecting on their longstanding relationship and shared achievements on the global stage.
When did Netanyahu arrive at the White House?
Netanyahu arrived at the White House on Monday evening for a private dinner with Trump, marking their third face-to-face meeting this year. The visit comes against the backdrop of intensifying international scrutiny over Israel’s ongoing military operations in Gaza and the still-unresolved hostage crisis.
The timing of the dinner is significant, as families of those still held by Hamas continue to plead with both leaders to ensure that any ceasefire deal includes the safe return of all captives.
Before the dinner, Netanyahu also met separately with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff. Those discussions took place at Blair House, the historic presidential guest residence just across from the White House, according to a statement from the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office.
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