Since Jack Bauer has been pulled from his senate sub-committee hearing to assist with the deadly domestic threat and the investigation of former colleague Tony Almeida, his new undefined role is to help secure the nation. Meanwhile, President Allison Taylor presides over the escalating time-sensitive dilemmas linked to the unrest in Sangala. Chloe O’Brian and Bill Buchanan are on hand this season as well as FBI Agents Renee Walker, Larry Moss, Janis Gold and Sean Hillinger to cope with the unthinkable events

With Tony in custody, Jack leads his interrogation, but is shocked when a code word Tony whispers in his ear leads to old friends and a plot much deeper than anyone in the FBI anticipated. Jack once again takes the law into his own hands when he breaks Tony out of the FBI's custody to deliver him back to the terrorist faction. Renee asks FBI technician Janis Gold to try to uncover a possible leak in the agency, but Janis is terrified when her discoveries point to fellow analyst Sean Hillinger. Colonel Dubaku sends a message to President Taylor, insisting that the US withdraw its forces from Sangala or risk a terrible attack on their soil.

Buchanan takes Jack to "CTU", a secret hideout where he and Chloe had been working with Tony to uncover the conspiracy within the US government. Tony had been undercover with the terrorists aiding Juma to discover the moles. Jack agrees to help get Tony back in play by joining Emerson's crew himself.

Taylor is forced to meet with Matobo to inform him that she may be required to withdraw her forces from Sangala to protect American lives. Her Chief of Staff Ethan Kanin agrees with this decision, but Taylor is not yet convinced.

Henry meets with Samantha, Roger's former girlfriend, who tells him that Roger was indeed murdered and provides him with proof.

As the threat of terrorism escalates, Jack Bauer is forced to take matters into his own hands to avert the imminent crisis facing the country. Meanwhile, lives are on the line as conflicted Agent Renee Walker copes with the volatile investigation, and FBI honcho Larry Moss is forced to keep a closer eye on his team as the nation's security is in jeopardy. At the White House, international stakes are raised and the First Gentleman proceeds with his personal mission.

As Dubaku presses President Taylor to comply with his devilish demands, she contemplates if the administration should negotiate to avert a disastrous terror attack. Meanwhile, away from the White House and the threatening international crisis, the determined First Gentleman struggles with his ongoing domestic mission, and perilous FBI Agent Walker diverts the attention of her tense colleagues. With national security on the line, Jack Bauer has a formidable plan in hopes of shielding the country in the “Day 7: 1:00-2:00 PM” episode.