As the Norwegian Nobel Committee prepares to announce this year’s recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, the name of U.S. President Donald Trump looms large over the deliberations.
Since assuming office in January, Trump has insisted that he is a deserving candidate for the prestigious award, claiming he has concluded at least “seven wars.”
On Wednesday, he positioned himself to take credit for potentially bringing an eighth conflict to a close. This follows an agreement on a preliminary ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, which is based on Trump’s recently introduced 20-point peace plan.
The announcement of this year’s winner occurs against the backdrop of Russia’s sustained military effort in Ukraine and various ongoing global conflicts.
With 338 nominees for the prize, the Nobel Committee—which consists of five members appointed by the Norwegian parliament—will determine the victor.
Why Trump Believes He Deserves the Nobel Peace Prize
During his speech at the United Nations General Assembly in September, Trump declared, “Everyone says I should get the Nobel Peace Prize,” asserting that he has ended seven wars, a feat he claims no other leader has matched.
Assessing Trump’s Credentials
While some wars he cites include those in which he had direct involvement, others have seen him act as a mediator, although the extent of his influence is debated. His assertions include:
- Trump announced he “deserved” the prize for the ceasefire in the ongoing conflict regarding Gaza. He is believed to have applied pressure on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu more than previous administrations to pause hostilities.
- The Iran-Israel conflict saw a ceasefire brokered by Trump, although the U.S. was involved in military actions during the fighting.
- Trump announced a ceasefire between India and Pakistan after four days of aerial conflict, though India contested his role.
- A truce between Cambodia and Thailand followed U.S. diplomatic efforts, yet only Cambodia acknowledged Trump’s involvement.
- Trump facilitated a 2020 agreement between Serbia and Kosovo, although tensions still persist.
- Although he claims to have ended tensions between Egypt and Ethiopia, the relationship hasn’t escalated into war.
- A peace agreement was established between Rwanda and the DRC, although stability remains tenuous.
- Trump oversaw a ceasefire between Armenia and Azerbaijan but displayed some confusion regarding the nations involved.
Trump’s Desire for the Nobel Prize
Trump believes he deserves the award, a sentiment echoed by many supporters. He has frequently compared his foreign policy efforts to the recognition received by former President Barack Obama, who won the prize in 2009 for his diplomatic initiatives.
Hasn’t Trump Also Engaged in Aggressive Actions?
Experts argue that the Nobel Committee may consider the entirety of a candidate’s contributions to peace. Trump’s foreign policy, characterized by potential aggression, including military actions in Iran, Yemen, and the Caribbean, raises questions about his suitability for the award.
Can Trump Still Win the Prize?
Nominations for the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize closed on January 31, shortly after Trump returned to the White House. Several leaders, including Netanyahu and others, have endorsed him, while nominations made after the cutoff will be considered for the 2026 prize.
Implications If Trump Is Not Awarded
Trump expressed that not receiving the prize would be an “insult to America.” Recent tensions have involved tariffs imposed by the U.S. on Norway over political issues related to Israel.
