Regional sources said there is "most significant progress" toward a hostage deal, an agreement in the Strip and ending the war in Gaza. "Both sides have shown flexibility, but fear the implications of the confrontation with Iran," one of them said, "The Israeli delegation is not yet departing for Doha for fear it would slow down negotiations - not accelerate them." Official American sources have told hostages' families in recent days that there are "very positive signs of a breakthrough."