New Delhi: Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado has found herself at the center of a global controversy just days after being named the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize laureate. While she was honored for her unwavering fight to restore democracy and resist authoritarian rule in Venezuela, her past remarks supporting Israel’s bombings in Gaza and calls for foreign intervention in her own country have triggered fierce backlash.

Why Maria Corina Machado Received the Nobel Peace Prize

The Nobel Committee awarded Machado the Peace Prize for her courageous efforts to promote democratic values and challenge Venezuela’s long-standing dictatorship. According to the committee’s statement, Machado’s determination to remain in Venezuela despite threats to her life inspired many.

“In times when authoritarian regimes tighten their grip, it becomes vital to recognize those who risk everything to uphold freedom and justice,” the Nobel Committee said while announcing her name.

Machado, one of the most prominent faces of Venezuela’s pro-democracy movement, has long been an outspoken critic of President Nicolás Maduro’s government. Over the years, she has endured persecution, bans from holding office, and threats to her safety but continues to advocate for free elections and civil liberties in her homeland.

Political Reaction and the Trump Connection

The Nobel Committee’s decision, however, has not been universally welcomed. The White House criticized the award, accusing the committee of prioritizing politics over peace. In a surprising move, Machado later dedicated her Nobel Prize to former U.S. President Donald Trump, praising his global leadership. Trump responded by saying he was “deeply honored” by the gesture and expressed happiness for her recognition.

This dedication sparked an additional wave of controversy, as critics questioned whether the Peace Prize—traditionally awarded for efforts to reduce conflict—was being politicized.

Mounting Criticism Over Israel Support

One of the main reasons for the outrage is Machado’s unwavering support for Israel’s military actions in Gaza. Her past social media posts have repeatedly justified Israeli bombings, drawing criticism from human rights organizations worldwide.

In a 2023 post, she wrote, “Venezuela’s struggle is similar to Israel’s fight for freedom.” She also stated that if she came to power, her administration would “fully support Israel’s right to defend itself.”

These statements have resurfaced since her Nobel announcement, fueling anger among pro-Palestinian activists and civil society groups.

Calls for Nobel Committee to Reconsider

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), a major U.S.-based Muslim rights organization, has urged the Nobel Committee to reconsider its decision. In its statement, CAIR said,

“Awarding Maria Corina Machado risks damaging the credibility of the Nobel Peace Prize. Her public support for violence and her political alignments contradict the principles of peace and human rights the Nobel Prize stands for.”

Controversy Over Foreign Intervention Appeals

Critics also point to Machado’s previous appeals to foreign governments to help overthrow Venezuela’s current regime. In 2018, she reportedly wrote letters to Israel and Argentina, urging them to assist in removing President Nicolás Maduro from power.

This stance, according to observers, undermines the spirit of sovereignty and peaceful democratic reform. It has also raised questions about whether her methods align with the ideals celebrated by the Nobel Committee.

A Divisive Laureate in a Polarized World

Maria Corina Machado’s Nobel recognition has reignited global debate on the politicization of peace awards. Supporters hail her as a fearless democrat standing up to tyranny, while opponents see her as a divisive figure whose views contradict the principles of peace and humanitarianism.

As the calls grow louder for the Nobel Committee to revoke the award, one thing is clear: Machado’s victory has become a symbol of how deeply divided the global narrative around democracy, intervention, and moral leadership has become.