Ceasefire, hostage return and governance reform
Announced by the White House on September 29, 2025, the 20-point peace plan underpins the ceasefire agreement, aiming to end the war in Gaza. The initiative seeks to halt violence, secure the return of hostages, and rebuild Gaza under international oversight, while fostering long-term stability.
The plan has garnered significant international support. Foreign ministers from Qatar, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia, Pakistan, Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt issued a joint statement endorsing the proposal.
They described it as a pivotal opportunity to end the conflict and build a sustainable future.
Both Hamas and Israel agreed to the plan's initial terms, beginning with an immediate ceasefire.
Under the agreement, Hamas must return all hostages both living and deceased within 72 hours of Israel's acceptance. In exchange, Israel committed to releasing Palestinian prisoners, including 1,700 Gazans detained after October 7, 2023.
The peace plan mandates the full demilitarization of Gaza, with a temporary technocratic administration governing the territory as Hamas disarms and relinquishes any official role.
Reconstruction, oversight and economic development
The agreement includes a comprehensive reconstruction initiative focused on humanitarian aid, infrastructure repair and essential services.
International partners carefully monitor compliance with the demilitarization process and governance reforms to ensure transparency and accountability.
To support Gaza's long-term recovery, the plan proposes a special economic zone to attract foreign investment and create jobs. Amnesty will be granted to Hamas members who renounce violence and surrender their weapons, fostering reconciliation and stability.
The United States will continue facilitating direct dialogue between Israel and the Palestinians to establish a political horizon for peaceful coexistence.
The plan affirms that Israel will not occupy or annex Gaza, reinforcing a commitment to a two-state framework.
US leaders called the initiative "a bold vision for peace" and said it offers "hope, dignity and a future" for both Israelis and Palestinians.
The first phase of the ceasefire has held while both parties are working toward full implementation of the plan.
![On October 12, 2025, Palestinians return to Gaza City after an Israel-Hamas ceasefire comes into effect, and both sides discussed implementing the US-sponsored 20-point plan to end the war. [Photo by Majdi Fathi/NurPhoto via AFP]](/ssc/images/2025/11/12/52678-_23__palestinians_return_to_a_devastated_gaza_city-600_384.webp)