On Monday (July 7, 2025), Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu informed U.S. President Donald Trump that he had officially nominated him for the Nobel Peace Prize. During their meeting at the White House, Netanyahu personally handed Trump the nomination letter, calling the recognition “well-deserved.”

 

Speaking to the press at the start of their meeting, Netanyahu said Israel and the U.S. were continuing efforts to identify countries that could offer Palestinians a path to a better future. Trump, who has often described himself as a skilled peacemaker and has expressed interest in receiving the Nobel Prize, appeared surprised by the nomination. “Coming from you, this means a lot,” he told Netanyahu.

 

Later, the two leaders were set to have a private dinner, even as families of hostages held in Gaza urged that any potential ceasefire deal must include the release of all remaining captives.

 

This marks the third meeting between Trump and Netanyahu this year. While the visit projects an air of celebration, it remains overshadowed by Israel’s ongoing 21-month war with Hamas in Gaza and uncertainty over how strongly Trump will advocate for an end to the conflict.