RismadarVoice Reporters
October 10, 2026
US President Donald Trump has criticised the Norwegian Nobel Committee for awarding the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize to South African jurist Navi Pillay, describing the decision as a disgrace and an embarrassment to Norway.
Trump made the remarks on Friday, October 9, during a campaign rally in Syracuse, New York, where he addressed supporters ahead of the November elections.
The president argued that his administration’s diplomatic efforts to prevent and resolve international conflicts should have earned him the prestigious award.
He maintained that he deserved recognition for what he described as his role in ending eight conflicts and preventing further hostilities in different parts of the world.
However, his claims about resolving the conflicts remain disputed, while the wars involving Russia and Ukraine and the United States and Iran remain unresolved.
Reacting to the committee’s decision, Trump said it had left an “indelible stain” on Norway, accusing those responsible for selecting the laureate of undermining the credibility of the Nobel Peace Prize.
The US president also questioned Pillay’s selection, saying he was unfamiliar with her work.
Pillay, 85, was announced as the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize recipient on Friday in recognition of her contributions to international law, human rights and efforts to promote peace.
The former United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has held prominent positions in international judicial institutions, including the International Criminal Court and the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda.
She also chaired a United Nations commission of inquiry that concluded Israel had committed genocide in Gaza, a finding rejected by Israel.
In announcing her selection, the Norwegian Nobel Committee highlighted her longstanding commitment to justice, accountability and the protection of international legal institutions.
Although Trump directed his criticism at Norway, the Nobel Peace Prize is awarded by the Norwegian Nobel Committee, which makes its selection independently of the Norwegian government.
Trump has repeatedly expressed his desire to receive the award, citing his administration’s foreign policy initiatives and diplomatic engagements.
During Friday’s rally, the president also criticised New York Attorney General Letitia James and Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul while campaigning for Republican candidates.
His remarks against James followed longstanding legal and political disputes arising from investigations into his business activities.
The latest controversy highlights the contrast between Trump’s assessment of his diplomatic record and the Nobel Committee’s decision to recognise Pillay’s work in international justice.
The Nobel Peace Prize is scheduled to be formally presented in Oslo on December 10, 2026.
