Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu informed U.S. President Donald Trump during a dinner at the White House on Monday night he had nominated him for the Nobel Peace Prize for his Middle East policies.
The dinner kicked off a crucial three-day visit by the Israeli leader, during which the allies, victorious in the 12 Day War over Iran, will discuss the future of peace for the region. The dinner was meant to be private, but the media were allowed access for just over half an hour to hear remarks and ask each leader questions.
Netanyahu stood and presented Trump with a copy of his letter to the Nobel Prize committee. Trump appeared to have been visibly moved: “Coming from you in particular, this is very meaningful.”
Nominations are open to the public, but it is likely that a nomination by the head of a democratic government carries greater weight — particularly if the nominee has been instrumental in securing peace for that country.
Netanyahu not only mentioned Trump’s current efforts, but also the Abraham Accords between Israel and several Arab and Muslim states, which the president negotiated during his first term.
