Nobel committee pleads for Iran's imprisoned 2023 laureate
The Norwegian Nobel Committee has expressed deep concern over the health of Narges Mohammadi, who suffered a heart attack in Iranian prison, as supporters warn her life is in imminent danger.
Apr 30th 2026 · World
A total of 287 candidates, comprising 208 individuals and 79 organisations, are under consideration for the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize, the Norwegian Nobel Committee confirmed on Thursday. Kristian Berg Harpviken, who became the committee's secretary in January 2025, revealed that this year's list shows significant turnover compared to the previous year, with many new nominees entering the pool. President Donald Trump is likely among those nominated, as leaders from Cambodia, Israel, and Pakistan have publicly stated they submitted nominations for the American president by the January 31 deadline, though the committee cannot verify these claims as nominations remain confidential for 50 years. The committee expressed deep concern over the deteriorating health of Narges Mohammadi, the 2023 Nobel Peace Prize laureate who remains imprisoned in Iran. Harpviken reported that Mohammadi suffered a heart attack in prison and that her sister's recent visit revealed alarming conditions, with supporters warning her life is in imminent danger. "We see there is a lot of international pressure now. So we hope that the Iranian authorities do pay attention to that and release her so that she can have proper medical treatment," Harpviken said. Meanwhile, the committee noted increased relevance of the prestigious award despite rising global conflicts and mounting pressure on international cooperation. The 2026 Nobel Peace Prize will be announced on October 9, with the award ceremony scheduled for December 10 at the Oslo City Hall. Among the notable possible nominees mentioned by Norwegian lawmaker Lars Haltbrekken are U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski and Danish Parliament member Aaja Chemnitz, both recognized for their work promoting peaceful development in the Arctic region. Greenland has attracted particular attention this year following Trump's persistent push to acquire the island from NATO ally Denmark. The 2025 laureate was Venezuela's Maria Corina Machado, and anyone can propose candidates including government members, heads of state, university professors, and former Nobel laureates.