In a surprise diplomatic move, Pakistan has shortlisted its former US counterpart, Donald Trump, for the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize for his “decisive diplomatic intervention and pivotal leadership” during the recent conflict between India and Pakistan. The move follows more than a month since the two South Asian countries agreed to a ceasefire on May 10, a progress Islamabad credits to Trump’s leadership.
Pakistan Credits Trump for Ceasefire
Pakistan’s formal nomination acknowledges Trump’s actions in ending the war, declaring, “This intervention is a testament to his [Trump’s] contribution as a true peacemaker and his dedication to conflict resolution through dialogue.” Trump’s “great strategic foresight and excellent statesmanship through strong diplomatic efforts with Islamabad and New Delhi” were additionally commended by the government of Pakistan, according to Dawn.
The nomination comes after the recent X (formerly Twitter) post by Pakistan’s government that referred to Trump’s actions as “pragmatic diplomacy and effective peace-building.” Islamabad even accused India of starting “unprovoked” aggression, while praising Trump for establishing a ceasefire without violence.
India Denies Any US Role between India- Pakistan Tension
In spite of Pakistan’s acknowledgment of the role of Trump, India has repeatedly denied that any US mediation took place. New Delhi says that the May 10 ceasefire was the result of direct and bilateral communications between Indian and Pakistani leaders. The Indian government holds the conflict responsible for the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, following which India initiated Operation Sindoor on May 7.
India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri reiterated New Delhi’s position, stating, “PM Modi made it clear to President Trump that during this entire episode, at no time, at any level, were issues such as India-US trade deal or mediation by the US between India and Pakistan discussed.”
Trump Repeatedly Claims Credit
Donald Trump, for his part, has issued several public declarations taking credit for bringing about peace. On May 22, he announced, “We settled that whole thing, and I think I settled it through trade. We’re doing a big deal with India. We’re doing a big deal with Pakistan. Somebody had to be the last one to shoot.”
Trump repeated this congratulatory comment just one day before Pakistan officially nominated him for the Nobel Peace Prize, raising eyebrows over the timing. He has long sought recognition for his international peace efforts and has frequently hinted at wanting to receive the Nobel Peace Prize.
Political Optics and Global Reactions
Pakistan’s approval could have an impact on global views before the US presidential elections. Nevertheless, India insists that the ceasefire was a product of regional diplomacy, not American mediation. The move might also complicate trilateral relations between Washington, New Delhi, and Islamabad, particularly as Trump intensifies campaign narratives with foreign policy victories.
