Former Vice President Kamala Harris released a statement commending President Donald Trump and his team for securing the Middle East ceasefire that resulted in the release of 20 Israeli hostages held by Hamas, as reported by Fox News.
However, Harris notably referred to Trump only as “the President,” avoiding the mention of his name.
“I am thankful and deeply encouraged that this ceasefire has brought long-awaited moments of joy and reunion — as 20 Israeli hostages are finally reunited with their loved ones and Palestinian families and the people of Gaza begin to receive desperately needed relief from unimaginable suffering,” Harris said in her statement.
Harris went on to acknowledge the diplomatic efforts behind the deal, saying, “Through diplomacy and persistence, today is an important first step toward a more hopeful future. I commend the leaders and partners whose efforts made this agreement possible, including the President and his team.”
She concluded by emphasizing the ongoing challenges ahead, stating, “There is still much more work to do to secure a lasting peace, ensure the safety and dignity of every innocent life, and build a future where Israelis and Palestinians can live side by side in freedom and security.”
My statement on the ceasefire in the Middle East. pic.twitter.com/5yx2S37eiD
— Kamala Harris (@KamalaHarris) October 14, 2025
The statement came after Hamas released the final group of 20 living hostages from Gaza, an outcome credited to President Trump’s 20-point peace framework introduced in late September.
The plan outlined measures for ending hostilities, rebuilding Gaza, and securing Israel through international cooperation led by Qatar and Egypt.
Israel’s conflict with Hamas escalated following the October 7, 2023, terrorist attacks, in which Hamas militants killed and abducted hundreds of civilians. The ceasefire marks the first major diplomatic success following months of fighting and international mediation.
Harris’s omission of Trump’s name drew attention given their political history. The former vice president was the Democratic nominee in the 2024 election, which she lost after President Trump won both the Electoral College and the popular vote.
Her campaign, which launched after former President Joe Biden ended his re-election bid and endorsed her, was unable to overcome Trump’s sweeping victory.
Democratic reaction to the ceasefire varied. Rep. Jasmine Crockett of Texas criticized Trump’s role, posting on X, “Raising hell at home & then pretending to be the President of Peace is diabolical.”
Raising hell at home & then pretending to be the President of Peace is diabolical.
— Jasmine Crockett (@JasmineForUS) October 13, 2025
In contrast, Democratic Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania took a different tone, writing, “Credit to @POTUS for a breakthrough ceasefire of this awful war.”
The ceasefire deal and hostage release have drawn praise across party lines and from international leaders, signaling a rare moment of unity in an otherwise divided political environment.
