Israeli figure nominated for Nobel Peace Prize despite controversial legacy

In a surprising development, Israeli academics have nominated Daniella Weiss, a leading figure in the promotion of illegal settlements in Palestinian territories, for the prestigious 2025 Nobel Peace Prize. This nomination has sparked widespread backlash and incredulity in the international community.

The nomination reportedly came from two professors at Ariel University and Ben-Gurion University. They praised Weiss for her long-standing efforts in fostering Jewish communities and claimed that her actions have contributed to regional stability. In their letter to the Nobel Prize Committee in Norway, Professors Amos Azaria and Shalom Sadik argued that the establishment of these settlements has reduced violence and improved security, citing what they describe as a lower casualty rate in the West Bank compared to Gaza.

However, this perspective is met with skepticism, as the majority of the international community, including the United Nations, considers Israel's West Bank settlements illegal. Weiss herself faced sanctions from Canada in 2024 for her role in extremist settler violence against civilians in the region.

Public reaction has been swift and critical. Many social media users expressed disbelief at the nomination, with comments suggesting it borders on absurdity. One commentator remarked, “Not even George Orwell could have dreamt this up,” while another quipped that she is receiving a “Nobel prize in genocide and colonization.”

Born in 1945 to American and Polish parents, Weiss has been a prominent advocate for the annexation of both the West Bank and Gaza Strip through her leadership of the Nachala Organization. Her rhetoric has often been associated with escalating violence against Palestinians. In a recent conference, she stated that Palestinians would “disappear” from Gaza, asserting that they have forfeited their rights to the territory following the events of October 7.

As the announcement for the Nobel Peace Prize recipients approaches in October, Weiss's nomination stands amid a record 338 candidates for this year’s award, reflecting a growing complexity in the discourse surrounding peace and conflict in the region.