The announcement from Hamas on Thursday could allow the ceasefire to continue for now, even after Israel said Thursday that a rocket had been launched from Gaza. But doubts remain about the long-term durability of the truce.

The hostages, who were made to give public speeches thanking the Hamas militants who had held them captive, looked frail and gaunt, sparking dismay and outrage in Israel.

The fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas appears to be back on track after Hamas said it will release Israeli hostages this weekend as initially planned.