The White House has responded to Pakistan’s decision to nominate former US President Donald Trump for the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize, calling it an acknowledgment of his diplomatic contributions in South Asia. Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt confirmed the nomination, stating that Pakistan recognized Trump’s role in de-escalating tensions between India and Pakistan during a military standoff in May 2025. “This reflects Pakistan’s appreciation for President Trump’s decisive actions that helped avert a potential nuclear conflict,” she said.
Islamabad recently submitted a formal recommendation to the Nobel Committee in Norway, citing Trump’s mediation during the crisis. The conflict began after India launched unprovoked missile strikes, prompting Pakistan’s retaliatory Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos, which targeted Indian military installations. The intense four-day clash saw Pakistan down six Indian fighter jets, including three advanced Rafales, and dozens of drones before a US-brokered ceasefire took effect on May 10.
This isn’t the first time Trump has been linked to the Nobel Peace Prize. During his presidency, he claimed he deserved the honor for preventing war between India and Pakistan but quipped that the committee favored “liberals.” Additionally, a Republican congressman has separately nominated Trump for his role in easing Israel-Iran tensions.
According to Pakistan’s military media wing, ISPR, at least 53 people, including 13 armed forces personnel and 40 civilians, were killed in Indian strikes during the confrontation. The White House’s endorsement of Trump’s nomination adds a new dimension to the debate over his diplomatic legacy—will the Nobel Committee agree?