Optimism is rising among US and Israeli officials about a potential ceasefire and hostage deal in Gaza, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicating that conditions for such an agreement are 'ripening' due to military pressure on Hamas. Netanyahu, who is in Washington to address Congress and meet with President Biden, has met with families of hostages, emphasizing the urgency of their release. US President Joe Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken have expressed that a deal might be imminent, with mediators from the US, Egypt, and Qatar working on finalizing the details. Hostage families have pressured Netanyahu to finalize the deal, citing the high cost of delay. Despite progress, specific technical issues still need resolution, and the situation remains tense with ongoing military and political complexities.