In a surprising move, a U.S. congressman has formally proposed former President Donald J. Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, citing his behind-the-scenes efforts in facilitating a ceasefire between Israel and Iran — two long-standing regional adversaries.
Representative Mark Reynolds (R-TX) made the announcement during a press conference on Capitol Hill, stating that Trump played a “critical and historic role” in de-escalating tensions that had brought the Middle East to the brink of war earlier this year.
“President Trump’s diplomatic engagement, strategic pressure, and bold back-channel communications contributed significantly to what we are now witnessing — a fragile but hopeful truce,” Reynolds said. “This is the kind of leadership that deserves global recognition.”
The ceasefire, brokered in part with assistance from Gulf states and indirect communications facilitated by several international actors, has been in place for three weeks. Though the Biden administration has not confirmed Trump’s involvement, several foreign media reports suggest he was part of informal negotiations supported by certain U.S. allies in the region.
Trump, who is running for re-election in 2024, responded to the proposal via Truth Social, writing, “Honored by the nomination. Peace is always the goal. We did it before — we can do it again.”
The Nobel Committee has yet to comment on the nomination, and it remains unclear whether Trump’s name will officially be included in the 2025 shortlist.
Political reactions in Washington are divided. While Trump’s supporters hailed the proposal as long-overdue recognition of his foreign policy approach, critics questioned the transparency and long-term viability of the ceasefire.
Middle East analysts remain cautiously optimistic. “If sustained, the Israel-Iran ceasefire could mark a turning point,” said Dr. Layla Moussavi, a regional affairs expert. “But it’s too early to say whether this peace will hold — or how much credit any one figure truly deserves.”
