January 1, Colbert and Kimmel Credit Trump for Hostage Release

Wyatt’s Take

• Trump received rare praise from late-night critics after Israeli hostages returned home.
• The peace deal secured a hostage release and a temporary ceasefire.
• Even some Democrats admitted Trump deserved credit.

Two late-night hosts, usually tough on President Trump, surprised viewers Monday by giving him credit for helping end the recent hostage crisis in the Middle East.

During his show, Jimmy Kimmel said,

“What a day for Donald Trump. You know what? He finally did something positive, and I want to give him credit for it because I know he’s not the type to take credit for himself. Trump was in Israel and Egypt today to celebrate a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. All 20 Israeli hostages are home after 738 days in captivity,”

he said. The agreement released 20 living Israeli hostages and freed 2,000 Palestinian prisoners, ending part of the violence and starting a new peace plan to help Gaza recover.

Kimmel added,

“And while we are only in the first phase of what will undoubtedly be a long and tricky process, the fact is the bombing has stopped, the hostages have been released, and Trump deserves some of the praise for that. So, I know it sounds crazy to say, but good work on that one, President Trump. Now maybe you can not invade Portland. Just an idea.”

Stephen Colbert, also known for criticizing Trump, agreed the president deserved praise.

“There is some good news out there. Because, today, thanks to Trump’s newly brokered ceasefire in Gaza, all living Israeli hostages and nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners have been released. It’s important, credit where credit is due, Donald Trump did something good,”

Colbert told his audience.

He joked,

“Are we still canceled? Are you sure? I tried. I tried. It’s kind of surprising to see him do something good.”

The peace plan marks a rare moment of bipartisan agreement. Hillary Clinton also praised President Trump’s actions, telling CBS’ Norah O’Donnell,

“I really commend President Trump and his administration, as well as Arab leaders in the region, for making the commitment to the 20-point plan and seeing a path forward for what’s often called the day after.”

Wyatt Matters

When folks from both sides admit real progress, that’s worth noticing. Heartland families want real results, not talk—when American leadership secures peace and saves lives, that’s the kitchen-table news that matters.

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