After receiving backlash in Israel when the Nobel Committee awarded the peace prize to Maria Colina Machado, a Venezuelan opposition leader, Ronnie Dweck, an Israeli laureate, nominated US President Donald J. Trump for the Israel Prize. He described Trump as a leader who has shown a strong commitment to Israel’s security and peace through his actions.
The Israel Prize, often referred to as the Israeli equivalent of the Nobel Prize, is awarded annually on Independence Day and is considered the nation’s highest honor. Because it’s typically not given to non-citizens, Dweck submitted a request for exemption to the Education Minister Yoav Kisz on Friday, advocating for Trump to receive the award for his lifetime achievements and significant contributions to society.
Dweck emphasized Trump’s ongoing diplomatic efforts in his appeal, stating, “Through his current work to bring back hostages and end the war in Gaza while ensuring Israel’s security, he is showing his deep commitment to the Jewish community and peace.” He urged the Israeli government to recognize Trump on the upcoming Independence Day.
Providing context, Dweck noted that Trump acted with determination and love for the Israeli people, effectively forging a new pathway for hope and partnership in the region. He mentioned that under Trump’s leadership, a historic peace agreement was reached, securing Israel’s interests and fostering optimism for the future.
Furthermore, the media reported that Dweck’s nomination highlights Trump’s push for a ceasefire and the release of hostages, and also references significant achievements during his presidency. These include the US acknowledgment of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and relocating the embassy, as well as Israel’s recognition of sovereignty over the Golan Heights and fostering agreements with Morocco and Sudan.
The nominee’s perspective on Trump’s regional impact also included efforts to reduce tensions with Syria and manage Hezbollah. Throughout the week, there was a growing call for recognition of Trump, with Israeli hostage families urging the Nobel Committee to honor him for advocating hostage releases and ceasefire agreements. Influential figures, including world leaders and celebrities, echoed that sentiment, insisting that Trump deserved this recognition.
On the day the Nobel decision was announced, the White House reiterated these claims, criticizing the committee for favoring politics over peace, describing Trump as a leader actively making peace deals and saving lives.
The Prime Minister’s Office in Israel supported this position, stating that while the Nobel Committee discusses peace, President Trump is actively making it a reality.
Maria Colina Machado, this year’s Nobel Prize winner, expressed her dedication of the award to the Venezuelan people and President Trump for his unwavering support, mentioning that Venezuelans need his backing more than ever.
Given Trump’s significant contributions to peace efforts, including the release of hostages and his previous achievements, it seems fitting to consider the Israel Prize as an appropriate way to honor his influence in advancing peace.
