Gaza peace plan and hostage release anniversary

In October 2026, U.S. officials marked the one-year anniversary of the peace plan and hostage release agreement in Gaza. The U.S. State Department highlighted the establishment of a “Palestinian technocratic administration” and a Peace Board, crediting mediation for the return of all hostages and an increase in humanitarian aid.

U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner commemorated the release of the final 20 living Israeli hostages, who were freed on October 13, 2025, after 738 days in captivity. Witkoff attributed the success to diplomatic efforts involving the United States, Israel, Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey.

While celebrating the ceasefire, reports noted the ongoing complexity of the region. The IDF reported an airstrike in Gaza City that eliminated a Hamas military commander, alleging his involvement in hostage-holding and ceasefire violations. Additionally, since the start of the conflict in October 2023, international organizations have characterized the death toll from Israeli fire as “genocidio” (genocide).