Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has publicly endorsed U.S. President Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize as a historic peace agreement between Israel and Hamas nears completion. The deal, announced by Trump, aims to end the conflict in Gaza by securing the release of Israeli hostages and a partial Israeli troop withdrawal.
Netanyahu’s support for Trump was highlighted on social media, where his account shared a message urging recognition of the U.S. president’s efforts. The Norwegian Nobel Committee is set to announce its decision on Friday. Trump previously stated that Israel and Hamas had reached phase 1 of a peace plan, which includes the release of all Israeli hostages held by Hamas and an Israeli military pullback from Gaza.
The conflict, sparked by Hamas’ October 7, 2023 attack, has resulted in over 67,000 Palestinian deaths. Netanyahu initially nominated Trump for the prize in July, citing U.S. actions such as targeting Iran’s nuclear program and facilitating a cease-fire between Israel and its adversaries.
Details of the agreement reveal that an immediate ceasefire would follow cabinet approval, with Israeli forces withdrawing to control approximately 53% of Gaza. A 72-hour period is set for Hamas to release 20 surviving hostages, followed by the return of bodies of 28 deceased captives. Israel also plans to free 250 Palestinian prisoners and 1,700 detainees from Gaza, though high-profile figures like Marwan Barghouti will remain incarcerated. Additionally, humanitarian aid will enter Gaza amid famine concerns.