Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has publicly endorsed U.S. President Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize following the announcement of phase 1 of a peace agreement between Israel and Hamas. The deal aims to end the conflict in Gaza by requiring Hamas to release all Israeli hostages and Israel to withdraw part of its forces from the region.
Netanyahu’s support for Trump was highlighted on social media, where his account shared a message praising the former president’s role in brokering the ceasefire. The Norwegian Nobel Committee is set to announce the winner of the prestigious award on Friday.
Trump unveiled the peace plan on Wednesday, outlining terms that include the release of 20 Israeli hostages held by Hamas and a partial Israeli troop withdrawal from Gaza. The agreement also involves the exchange of Palestinian prisoners and humanitarian aid deliveries to the region.
The conflict, which began with Hamas’ October 7, 2023 attack, has resulted in over 67,000 Palestinian casualties. Netanyahu had previously nominated Trump for the Nobel Prize in July, citing his efforts in addressing regional tensions and facilitating peace.
Details of the ceasefire process include a 72-hour window for Hamas to release surviving hostages, followed by the repatriation of deceased captives. Israel also plans to free approximately 250 Palestinian prisoners, though high-profile figures like Marwan Barghouti will remain incarcerated. Humanitarian aid is expected to enter Gaza as part of the arrangement.
