French President Emmanuel Macron stated on Tuesday that if U.S. President Donald Trump truly wants to win the Nobel Peace Prize, he must use American influence to stop the ongoing war in Gaza. Speaking to France’s BFM TV during his trip to New York, Macron emphasized that only the U.S. president holds the leverage necessary to pressure Israel into halting the conflict.
“There is one person who can do something about it, and that is the U.S. president,” Macron said. He highlighted that unlike France, the United States supplies the weapons and equipment enabling the continuation of the war. “The Nobel Peace Prize is only possible if you stop this conflict,” Macron added.
Trump delivered a combative speech at the United Nations General Assembly, rejecting calls from Western allies to endorse a Palestinian state, claiming it would reward Hamas militants. However, he also stressed the need to “stop the war in Gaza immediately” and called for peace negotiations. Macron, reflecting on the remarks, noted Trump’s ambition for recognition: “I see an American president who reiterated from the podium: ‘I want peace. I have resolved seven conflicts,’ who wants the Nobel Peace Prize.”
Trump has been nominated for the prestigious award by countries including Cambodia, Israel, and Pakistan, in recognition of his role in brokering peace deals and ceasefires. The Nobel Prize, awarded by Norway, has previously gone to four U.S. presidents.
White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly defended Trump’s record, saying, “President Trump has done more for peace than everyone present at the United Nations combined.” She credited his foreign policy achievements to his “America Strong” agenda, claiming it has enhanced global stability.
While Trump continues to promote his accomplishments on the world stage, Macron’s remarks underscored that achieving peace in Gaza could determine whether he secures the global recognition he seeks.