WASHINGTON — Former Vice President Kamala Harris praised “the president” on Monday evening for playing a role in the release of the last 20 Israeli hostages freed from Hamas captivity, while omitting to name the individual who bested her in last November’s election.
Harris, aged 60, referred to the recent Middle Eastern developments as “a significant initial move towards a brighter future.”
“I am grateful and heartened that this ceasefire has fostered long-awaited moments of joy and reunion — as 20 Israeli hostages are at last back with their families, and Palestinian families and the people of Gaza are beginning to receive the critical aid they desperately need amid their suffering,” she stated on X.
“I express my admiration for the leaders and partners whose contributions made this agreement attainable, including the President and his team,” she continued.
Trump introduced his 20-point plan for peace to conclude the Israel-Hamas conflict on September 29. Hamas consented to the terms on October 8, with the Israeli security cabinet endorsing it the next day.
The warring factions officially entered a ceasefire this past Friday, leading to Hamas releasing the final 20 living hostages on Monday, just prior to Trump’s address to the Israeli Knesset and his participation in the “Summit for Peace” in Egypt.
Previously, Harris had offered Trump minimal accolades for his attempts to facilitate the peace agreement, yet also referred to him solely by his title.
“I believe we should acknowledge credit where it is warranted,” Harris expressed during an interview on MSNBC’s “The Weekend,” which aired Sunday, following the anchor’s mention of Hillary Clinton’s commendation of Trump.
“I truly hope this [deal] materializes,” she further remarked. “I applaud those involved in this process, including the Qataris, the Egyptians, and the president.”
Many high-profile Democrats celebrated the breakthrough between Israel and Gaza, yet numerous officials had not credited Trump’s involvement.
Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas) mocked Trump in her comments.
“Creating chaos at home & then pretending to be the President of Peace is absurd,” she critiqued on social media Monday afternoon.
Creating chaos at home & then pretending to be the President of Peace is absurd.
— Jasmine Crockett (@JasmineForUS) October 13, 2025
I am profoundly thankful and relieved that this day has arrived – for the last remaining 20 hostages who have endured unimaginable suffering and are finally reuniting with their families and loved ones, as well as for the civilians in Gaza who have faced immense losses and will finally…
— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) October 13, 2025
Harris also warned: “There is still much more to accomplish in securing a lasting peace, ensuring the safety and dignity of every innocent life, and establishing a future where Israelis and Palestinians can coexist in freedom and security.”
The Israel-Hamas conflict had divided the progressive bloc, presenting yet another challenge for Harris in her 2024 presidential aspirations.
Former President Joe Biden, who also faced difficulties navigating the Gaza conflict, was sure to acknowledge Trump directly.
“The path to this agreement was fraught with challenges,” Biden remarked on X Monday night. “My administration worked tirelessly to repatriate hostages, provide aid to Palestinian civilians, and bring the war to an end. I commend President Trump and his team for their efforts in getting a renewed ceasefire deal finalized.”
