One year on, Trump's Gaza plan has not stopped Israeli fire or disarmed Hamas

One year after U.S. President Donald Trump introduced his 20-point plan aimed at ending the Gaza war, progress remains elusive as Israeli forces continue to launch frequent attacks and maintain control over roughly two-thirds of the devastated territory. After a ceasefire went into effect on October 10, 2025, the initial phase of the plan led to the release of the final hostages captured by Hamas in the 2023 assault on Israel, along with the freedom for numerous Palestinian prisoners and detainees held by Israel.

However, aspirations to disarm Hamas, compel an Israeli withdrawal, and rebuild Gaza seem increasingly out of reach. The plan outlined several stages, beginning with a suspension of all military operations, Israeli redeployment from parts of the enclave, prisoner and hostage releases, and an increase in humanitarian aid. Subsequent phases envisioned Hamas disarming and the establishment of a new Palestinian administration overseen by the Trump-led Board of Peace.

Subsequently, Israel would gradually withdraw, transferring control to a temporary International Stabilization Force (ISF).

Despite the progress in securing the release of hostages and prisoners, Israel's ongoing military activities and the deplorable conditions faced by Palestinians in Gaza suggest that the remaining objectives of the plan remain unattainable.