Roosevelt to Obama: Four US presidents who won the Nobel Peace Prize

In a move laden with symbolism and political alignment, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu used a White House visit to nominate US President Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize — praising his role in brokering regional normalisation deals and pushing for a ceasefire in Gaza.

Presenting a formal letter to the Norwegian Nobel Committee during a dinner meeting, Netanyahu lauded Trump as “forging peace as we speak,” highlighting the Abraham Accords and Washington’s recent diplomatic push involving Iran and Hamas. The gesture underscores the deepening ties between the two leaders as they seek to consolidate gains from a volatile 12-day conflict.

Here’s a look at the US presidents who have won the Nobel Peace Prize.

For mediating the end of the Russo-Japanese War

Roosevelt became the first US President to win the Nobel Peace Prize for his role in negotiating peace between Russia and Japan, ending the 1904–05 war. His efforts culminated in the Treaty of Portsmouth. Known for his “big stick” diplomacy, Roosevelt combined military strength with strategic negotiation. A progressive reformer at home, he believed in active American global engagement and championed early international arbitration. His prize set a precedent for presidential diplomacy as a tool for global stability. He donated the prize money to promote peace and understanding, including support for war relief and academic institutions.

For founding the League of Nations

Wilson received the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts to establish the League of Nations after World War I. Through his Fourteen Points, he envisioned a new international order based on self-determination, diplomacy, and collective security. Though the US Senate rejected joining the League, Wilson’s idealism influenced global governance for decades. He travelled to Europe to personally advocate for the Treaty of Versailles, a bold move for a sitting US president. Despite suffering a stroke during the campaign for US ratification, he remained committed to his peace vision. The League later evolved into the United Nations.

For decades of work advancing peace, democracy, and human rights

Carter was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize more than two decades after his presidency, recognising his tireless post-office efforts through the Carter Centre. His initiatives include mediating international conflicts, monitoring elections in over 100 countries, and leading public health campaigns, such as eliminating Guinea worm disease. As President (1977–1981), Carter brokered the Camp David Accords between Egypt and Israel, a cornerstone of Middle East peace efforts. The Nobel Committee praised his “untiring effort to find peaceful solutions to international conflicts” and his work in promoting human rights, poverty reduction, and democratic reform globally.

For efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation

Awarded early in his presidency, Obama received the Nobel Peace Prize for his vision and efforts to reshape global diplomacy and promote nuclear disarmament. The Nobel Committee cited his emphasis on multilateralism, dialogue, and a more cooperative world order. His speeches in Cairo and Prague outlined aspirations for peace and global engagement. Though critics said the award was premature, the committee intended it as an encouragement for leadership rooted in ideals, not force. During his presidency, Obama negotiated the Iran nuclear deal, normalised relations with Cuba, and emphasised diplomacy in US foreign policy.