Vice President Kamala Harris said Thursday pledged her support to Israel in its war with Hamas, but said a ceasefire deal that brings hostages home must be reached to end the war.

“We have to get a deal done,” she said in a CNN interview. “When you look at the significance of this — the families, to the people, who are living in the region, a deal is not only the right thing to do to end this war, but will unlock so much of what must happen next.”

Ms. Harris said she supports a two-state solution that would keep Israel secure but give Palestinians “self-determination and dignity.”

She also echoed President Biden’s comments about the administration’s support for Israel.

“I’m unequivocal and — and unwavering in my commitment to Israel’s defense and its ability to defend itself. And that’s not going to change,” she said. “We must get a deal that is about getting the hostages out.” 

• Jeff Mordock can be reached at jmordock@washingtontimes.com.